bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex knowledge modelling with functional entity relationship diagrams
Authors: Pigott Diarmuid J. , Hobbs Valerie J.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Modelling complex knowledge resources can be problematical as there is currently no formalism that can represent the nature of the data‐seeking process at a conceptual level. The purpose of this paper is to develop a knowledge representation formalism, the functional entity relationship diagram (FERD), which comprises a set of extensions to the industry standard entity relationship diagram established by Chen.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a design science approach to extend the existing ER formalism using the question‐answering (QA) paradigm. It is an extension of standard data modelling theory and is consistent with category theory.

Findings

The authors defined the functional entity, an encapsulated data resource that acts as a QA system and enumerated a typology of nine functional entities generated from two established principles to produce a modelling framework that can depict all existentially quantifiable relations, and demonstrated a satisficing extension to that framework (non‐Aristotelian functional entities) for those situations that do not permit such relations. Further, the authors discussed the system of knowledge mixins for qualifying the relations, and presented an adjunct to the framework, cartographic functional entities, to permit formally verifiable documentation.

Research limitations/implications

Future research will address the pragmatic/sociological dimensions of FERD modelling, and test its utility in field case studies.

Practical implications

The FERD conceptualisation incorporates traditional IS modelling as one aspect of a richer modelling system, and thereby includes all of traditional IS repositories as first class, unmediated sources of knowledge. The establishment of standard types of functional entities can provide a framework for the methodical conversion of the declarative design level to the imperative implementation level. It thus has significant practical implications for the management and use of knowledge in organisations.

Originality/value

The research is original and provides a valuable contribution to conceptual modelling and representation of complex knowledge systems.
Knowledge management challenges for nongovernment organizations
Authors: Soakell‐Ho Michelle , Myers Michael D.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The introduction of competitive tendering and contracting and a lack of transparent funding processes has seen a move towards greater contestability of services in the nongovernment organization (NGO) sector. To ameliorate this situation requires a sound understanding of knowledge management (KM) practices. However, not all NGOs have been equally successful at embracing KM principles. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to explore the KM challenges faced by New Zealand NGOs in the health and disability sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative research methods, specifically interpretive case study research, the authors studied the KM practices of nine NGOs in the health and disability sector in New Zealand. Qualitative data were obtained from documents and semi‐structured interviews following a dramaturgical approach.

Findings

The findings suggest many barriers to successful implementation of KM in NGOs; some of the most important ones being related to organizational structure and culture. Specifically, tensions between local and national organizational branches, difficulty integrating volunteers and complex funding arrangements are key challenges faced by NGOs in the health and disability sector.

Originality/value

Existing literature suggests that volunteer turnover is a serious impediment to successful KM implementation. The authors' research suggests that volunteer integration, more so than turnover, is an issue. The research also reports on an underlying tension between commercialization and the inherent service culture of the sector. This paper makes recommendations for improved volunteer management and suggests that there is a clear opportunity for better KM systems and practices in the NGO sector.
A solution of aluminum substrate drilling
Authors: Song Fumin , Fu Lianyu , Zhang Fei
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present and describe a solution of aluminum substrate drilling.

Design/methodology/approach

The development of LED and printed circuit board with metal substrate are reviewed first. Then the challenges of drilling metal substrate, particularly the aluminum substrate, are described. To find the solution, coated micro drill bit with optimized helix angle is developed. The performance of developed micro drill bit is examined via drilling force investigation. Finally, the drilling tests are conducted to verify the solution of aluminum substrate drilling.

Findings

Coated drill bit is a very good choice to solve the problems of drilling burr and chip clogging in aluminum substrate drilling. The reason is that the drilling force can be obviously reduced by using a coated drill bit. The drill bit with medium helix angle is beneficial to prevent chip clogging. A satisfactory solution of aluminum substrate drilling can be achieved by applying coated drill bit with medium helix angle together with appropriate entry board.

Originality/value

The paper presents a satisfactory solution of aluminum substrate drilling. By employing the presented solution, the problems of drilling burr and chip clogging can be avoided in aluminum substrate drilling.
Social tolerance for human diversity in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Bangwayo‐Skeete Prosper F. , Zikhali Precious
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the individual‐level determinants of self‐declared social tolerance towards six groups/practices in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA): tolerance to linguistic differences, racial distinction, religious dissimilarity, homosexuality, acquired immuno deficiency syndrome (AIDS) victims and immigrants.

Design/methodology/approach

Using individual‐level data from the 2005 World Values Survey, the paper simultaneously estimates multivariate probit models for all six dimensions of social tolerance.

Findings

Apart from the strong interdependency among all social tolerance indicators, the analysis reveals that individual attributes affect tolerance towards the six groups differently. For instance, education enhances social tolerance for all groups except homosexuals while access to media increase tolerance for people living with AIDS.

Research/limitations/implications

Effective social tolerance policies can be enhanced through joint targeting of the indicators considered. Moreover, tolerance‐enhancing policies generally benefit from improved access to education while improved access to media could increase tolerance for AIDS victims.

Originality/value

The originality of the analysis lies in the joint analysis or determination of a wider spectrum of social tolerance indicators. This paper can help to inform policies that are aimed at reducing SSA's recurrent inter‐ and intra‐group conflicts attributed primarily to the region's high levels of ethnic and cultural fragmentation.
Sumner Slichter and Emil Lederer on technological unemployment
Authors: Katselidis Ioannis , Vouldis Angelos , Michaelides Panayotis G.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze Emil Lederer's and Sumner Slichter's theses on the concept of technological unemployment.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the presence of core elements of both economists' visions in the famous Debate on Technological Unemployment (1928‐1933), it is surprising that so little attention has been paid to their works. This paper makes an attempt to interpret certain parts of Emil Lederer's oeuvre in association with the writings of Sumner Slichter based on a careful examination of their writings and their theoretical investigations.

Findings

The writings of both economists seem to converge to similar views. Analytically, they both attempted to explain the inability of the economic system to readjust and absorb the unemployed workers. Moreover, both economists disputed the assertion of Say's law that full equilibrium would be assured by the functioning of market forces. In contrast to other economists, they both attached increased significance to the supply side of the economy and in particular to the role of technical change. Furthermore, it seems that both authors were in favor of restrained technological change, which would be absorbed smoothly from the economic system. Another interesting aspect of both economists' investigations is their respective theoretical shift around 1930, which could be attributed to the disastrous consequences of the Great Depression. The paper concludes that, despite some differences between Lederer and Slichter, the parallels are impressive.

Originality/value

Most aspects of Slichter and Lederer's works remain unexplored. Thus, the connection between them may be very useful for promoting dialogue between different schools or strands of thought.
Do windfall non‐debt tax shields from acquisitions affect corporate debt issues?
Authors: Ghosh Sudip , Harrington Christine , Smith Walter
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify possible tax synergies from acquisitions when the acquiring firm gains a non‐debt tax shield (NDTS) not directly associated with its own past performance, or a windfall NDTS. One possible benefit of a windfall NDTS is reduced reliance on interest tax shields to lower the firm's marginal tax rate (MTR).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper tests the likelihood of issuing debt following acquisitions of windfall non‐debt tax attributes with logistic regressions. Both acquirers and targets are publicly held US firms. Acquisitions are completed from 1987 to 2003, and debt issues are observed following the deal. Target firm tax attributes are defined as the total tax spread, tax loss carryforward (TLCF), and the MTR.

Findings

Target firm tax spread and TLCFs are inconsequential to the acquirer's likelihood of issuing future debt, suggesting that tax synergies are relatively unimportant motives for acquisitions. As predicted, the target firm MTR is not significant to acquirer debt issues.

Originality/value

This paper makes several contributions. First, the notion of tax synergies from acquisitions is unresolved. This paper continues the search for tax synergies in acquisitions by examining the importance of acquired NDTS in the post‐acquisition period. Second, this paper examines the influence of NDTS on debt issuance in a post‐event framework. Third, this paper provides additional evidence that corporate managers have leverage targets.
The economic crisis and its effect on libraries
Authors: Guarria Charles I. , Wang Zhonghong
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the recent recession in the USA and its impact on libraries. It illustrates how libraries are coping with the fiscal constraints and challenges this economic climate imposes. It seeks to provide timely feedback and best practices from librarians and administrators (mostly academic) regarding measures they are taking and their plans for the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review reveals news regarding library budget cuts and their impact on collections, operations, and personnel. Two online surveys were conducted, one of the library community at large, the other of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) deans and directors.

Findings

A majority of the libraries have experienced flat or reduced budgets and many expect additional budget cuts in the immediate future. Key areas affected include collections/materials, professional development/travel, supplies/equipment, personnel and hours of operation. Survey respondents suggest that library administrators and librarians should examine workflow to increase efficiency, prioritize projects, and adopt creative measures.

Practical implications

This article provides informative and practical suggestions for those managing budgets in difficult economic times.

Originality/value

Data collected provide a snapshot of the financial constraints libraries currently face. It provides practical lessons and suggestions for library administrators and librarians seeking to cope with flat or reduced budgets while maintaining quality services.
Electronic books: a call for effective business models
Authors: Schroeder Rebecca , Wright Tom
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assert that, in an effort to more effectively match users' needs to purchases and extend the buying power of library budgets for e‐books, libraries should use a profiled purchase on demand option to supplement their current practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews usage patterns for print and e‐books, business models for e‐books and comments on the benefits of using a patron‐driven acquisitions model.

Findings

Circulation of the print collection is slowly declining, with only 20 per cent of the collection circulating in 2009. Large purchased collections of e‐books statistics are roughly the same but those purchased through Patron‐Driven Acquisitions are assured use.

Originality/value

The discussion of current business models for e‐books illustrates some challenges libraries face in transitioning from print to electronic. Patron‐driven models allow libraries to help users at point of need and manage scarce resources.
Exploring a new learning landscape in tertiary education
Authors: Doiron Ray , Asselin Marlene
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This conceptual paper aims to stimulate discussion on the growing influence of digital technologies on the success of learners in tertiary institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is grounded in a synthesis of the professional literature showing how learners entering tertiary institutions have been influenced by their pervasive use of digital technologies. This evidence suggests that a more integrated use of libraries is needed, and more collaboration among librarians, educators and learners will be fundamental to responding to the changing learning landscape.

Findings

The findings indicate that today's “new learners” expect more control of their learning situations, prefer active learning and they engage in networked communities for their social and professional lives. Research also shows that, while these learners are committed users of a wide range of digital technologies, they require support in developing their information and critical literacies. The paper also identified the tendency for educators to limit their uses of digital technologies for course management and the addition of online resources to their teaching, while resisting any fundamental change in the structure and delivery of courses. Academic libraries are responding to these challenges by creating more social learning spaces, integrating services for instructors and students and becoming more active partners in the educational community.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations identified here include the widening gap between those living and learning with digital technologies and the majority of the world youth still struggling to gain full access.

Originality/value

The research is one of the few position papers to begin its argument with a description of today's digital learners and then to connect their learning needs with the many changes in libraries at the tertiary level. The paper attempts to conceptualize how libraries can take a leadership role in bridging the gap between the learning styles and needs of today's students and the challenges of building new learning landscapes in tertiary institutions.
User search‐limiting behavior in online catalogs
Authors: Ballard Terry , Blaine Anna
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to show how the addition of a next‐generational overlay to an existing online catalog can lead to more‐refined searching by users. Users of classic online catalogs have always had the ability to refine their searches and define better the specific type of material they want. However, research in the last two decades has consistently shown that few users take advantage of this extra step. Now with the rise of discovery platforms like Encore and Aquabrowser, the limiting capabilities are automatically displayed to the user, and this study aims to demonstrate that this creates a significant change in search behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The library worked through months of its search logs for both the classic and online catalogs and compared data from the two platforms. Similar log data were obtained from other libraries to confirm that this was a universal trend.

Findings

The study shows that users are 15‐20 times more likely to refine their searches if they are searching in a discovery platform.

Originality/value

Librarians can base their bibliographic instruction sessions on a better understanding of the search behaviors likely in the two kinds of catalogs.
Information literacy instruction in the library: now more than ever
Authors: Massis Bruce E.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this column is to examine the importance of libraries continuing to provide and enhance information literacy instruction to students in a challenging teaching and learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the format of a literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by colleague institutions.

Findings

The need for the continued development and implementation of information literacy instruction in the library must continue to evolve as a collaborative effort between librarians and faculty to ensure higher levels of student success in library use and research acuity.

Originality/value

The value in addressing this issue is to examine the necessity of the professional librarians collaborating with faculty in delivering relevant information literacy instruction in an academic library.
An examination of branding advantage in export ventures
Authors: Spyropoulou Stavroula , Skarmeas Dionysis , Katsikeas Constantine S.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Globalization has rendered international expanding activities increasingly important for the survival, growth and success of modern firms. Drawing on the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm, the purpose of the present study is to investigate the antecedents and performance implications of branding advantage in export ventures.

Design/methodology/approach

A mail survey was used to collect data from exporting manufacturers. Further, a series of qualitative interviews with export managers was conducted. The unit of analysis is the export venture. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to assess the measurement properties of the study constructs. Structural equation modelling using a full information estimation approach was performed to test the research model.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that both export venture financial and experiential resources promote export venture communication capabilities, and financial and experiential resources and communication capabilities are contributors to the achievement of export venture branding advantage, which in turn is related positively to export venture performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study findings provide export managers with useful insights into how to successfully compete in export markets on the basis of branding advantage. Financial and experiential resources and communication capabilities should be deployed in order to achieve a branding advantage position and enhanced export performance outcomes. Replication of this research within other settings is needed to test the external validity of the present findings.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this study is that it highlights the role of branding advantage in the context of exporting firms.
Country and firm level factors in international retail expansion
Authors: Chan Polly , Finnegan Carol , Sternquist Brenda
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate firm‐ and country‐level drivers of retail performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A database of the top 200 global retailers was primarily constructed from the 2005 Global Powers of Retailing data. Regression was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The predictors are able to explain firm level variations in sales growth, but not ROI. While retailers' sales growth is positively related to expansion speed, it is negatively related to number of retail formats and number of countries of operation. Moreover, retailers who choose to expand into a host country that is less developed, with relatively high disposable income, tend to be more successful than others.

Research limitations/implications

This study is focused on the foreign expansion process and characteristics of the top performing retailers and their first foreign expansion destination.

Practical implications

Findings reflect differences in internationalization strategies of top retailers. Findings also provide guidance for companies who already have foreign subsidiaries, and for those who are interested in opening new markets.

Originality/value

This paper examines the impact of the economic characteristics of the first host country entered and firm level resources and capabilities on two measures of firm performance. Empirical tests of the impact of retail portfolio management capabilities and international market portfolio management capabilities on retail sales growth are offered.
Self‐congruity and volunteering: a multi‐organisation comparison
Authors: Randle Melanie , Dolnicar Sara
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether individuals who prefer different volunteering organisations have different self‐concepts, whether individuals perceive their preferred volunteering organisation as more similar to their self‐concept than other volunteering organisations, and whether self‐congruity theory correctly predicts consumer (volunteer) behaviour differences across organisations and organisational missions.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected on people's preferred volunteering organisation, their self‐concept and their perceived image from eight volunteering organisations using an online self‐completion survey. Chi‐square tests and paired‐sample t‐tests were then used to identify significant differences between groups.

Findings

Individuals who prefer different volunteering organisations differ significantly in their self‐concept. For the three volunteering organisations with high levels of awareness and distinct images, self‐congruity theory held; that is, people who volunteer for them perceive those organisations as being more similar to their self‐concept than other volunteering organisations. For the four organisations with lower awareness and less distinct images, the authors found a tendency towards self‐congruity, but results were not significant. In one case, self‐congruity theory did not hold, possibly due to the more “obligatory” nature of the volunteering task.

Research limitations/implications

This research extends the application of self‐congruity theory to the volunteering context. It identifies three key dimensions that affect the extent to which self‐congruity holds for volunteering organisations: brand awareness; image distinctiveness; and whether the involvement is actually “voluntary”.

Practical implications

Self‐congruity theory has the potential to be a valuable tool in helping volunteering organisations increase their productivity through better targeted marketing strategies.

Originality/value

This study is the first to apply self‐congruity theory to the volunteering sector at the organisation brand level, and gives practitioners an additional tool to improve the effectiveness of their marketing.
Understanding the antecedents to public interest and engagement with heritage
Authors: McDonald Heath
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Attempts to increase public participation in heritage‐related activities have had mixed success. This research seeks to understand the degree to which people value heritage, what influenced their degree of engagement with heritage and what elements of a heritage item impacted upon the value attached to it by the public.

Design/methodology/approach

Focus groups and repertory grid analysis were used to gain a sense of how people defined heritage and the factors that influenced their perceptions and involvement. A survey of a nationally representative sample of over 3,200 people was then conducted to empirically test these findings.

Findings

The results emphasise that people are highly motivated to engage in heritage activities that they find directly relevant to their own specific interests, culture or history. Heritage was defined broadly, encompassing a wide range of objects, places and experiences, summarised here under 15 categories. The key criteria in determining whether a particular object was viewed as being worthy of heritage protection were its perceived importance to the nation, personal relevance, irreplaceability and uniqueness.

Research limitations/implications

The data is limited to the Australian context, and the approach should be replicated in other nations to examine generalisability of results. The complex way in which the public defines heritage means that much work is still to be done to understand how the various attributes of a heritage item interrelate to influence its perceived value.

Practical implications

This paper includes implications for heritage managers, specifically on how to educate and support the public connection with heritage by encouraging them to build personal connections through experience, storytelling and celebrations.

Originality/value

Through its use of multiple methods of data collection, and inclusion of oft‐overlooked groups, this study presents a rare “national” perspective on public views of heritage and how they are formed.
Markets, music and all that jazz
Authors: Kubacki Krzysztof , Croft Robin
Published: May 2011

Purpose

In recent years there has been a welcome growth of interest in learning how artists understand, engage with and respond to aspects of business practice such as marketing. In the case of music it has been suggested that artists are by no means universally motivated by commercial success, and in many cases find the practices of mass marketing repellent. However, there is general agreement that the study of attitudes of artists is still in its infancy, not just in terms of identifying the research agenda, but just as pressingly in identifying a range of appropriate methodological tools for understanding the phenomenon. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes a study where the focus was narrowed to a single genre (jazz), a single country (Poland) and a single artistic level (acts which have been successful both commercially and artistically). In total three biographical interviews were completed, involving four jazz musicians.

Findings

The research found many points of convergence with earlier studies, in particular the primacy of the artistic ideal over commercial imperatives. The evidence of this study, though, suggests that jazz musicians can engage with markets through a variety of different methods, which are heavily influenced by their desired and actual artistic identities.

Originality/value

This study sought to make a contribution to a growing area of research into musicians' identities outside the USA.
Internationalisation of Korean performing arts
Authors: Fillis Ian , Lee Boram
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to focus on the internationalisation process and experiences of Korean theatre companies. Factors investigated include cultural issues impinging on production values and the roles of entrepreneurial thinking and creativity. An analysis of impacting barriers on performing arts internationalisation is also carried out.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was used to investigate the performance and internationalisation activities of five Korean theatre companies that participated in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Findings

The exporting of Korean cultural products contributes markedly to the perception and understanding of Korea. Small theatre companies with a tolerance of risk‐taking, together with competencies in creativity and entrepreneurial thinking, can help to minimise the effect of unforeseen problems experienced during the internationalisation of theatre productions.

Research limitations/implications

The in‐depth case study approach adopted here has resulted in the uncovering of data that would not have been unveiled through questionnaire analysis alone. The findings can, however, contribute to future large‐scale surveys of the arts industry.

Practical implications

The issues identified in this study are also relevant for other forms of internationalising artistic productions. The successful combination of artistic ability and the implementation of entrepreneurial competencies, together with the creative use of limited resources, serve as competitive advantages for the arts organisation.

Originality/value

This research promotes a cross‐disciplinary approach to arts marketing in general by encouraging the interrogation of fields such as entrepreneurship, small business marketing and internationalisation research.
Scenistic methods for training: applications and practice
Authors: Lyons Paul R.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to complement an earlier article (2010) in Journal of European Industrial Training in which the description and theory bases of scenistic methods were presented. This paper also offers a description of scenistic methods and information on theory bases. However, the main thrust of this paper is to describe, give suggested uses for, and then to examine the empirical research already conducted on three scenistic methods: skill charting, case‐based modeling and performance templates. The thrust of the research review is to examine the efficacy of each of the three methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the descriptive information regarding scenistic methods in‐general, each of the three specific methods (see above) are explained in detail as they might be used in training practice. Then, for each method, samples of the extant empirical research attendant to the method is examined.

Findings

With regard to the empirical research presented in the paper it is found that in most practical applications of the methods, employees trained with scenistic methods out‐perform employees trained with more conventional methods on some if not most of the variables under examination. The findings demonstrate that scenistic methods clearly have promise, although statistical precision is compromised owing to small sample sizes.

Research limitations/implications

Studying the effects of different forms of training in these studies is constrained because the very nature and design of scenistic training approaches limits the number of trainees that can be included in a group. In brief, this means that results of use of conventional statistical tools demonstrate less sensitivity to group‐to‐group differences in performance. It is much easier to demonstrate statistical significance if comparing large groups of 60 or more individuals, each. Regardless, comparisons of groups in the reported studies demonstrate significant differences in performance following training on most variables.

Practical implications

Overall, scenistic methods show much promise for use by training practitioners as the available empirical research, in the field, demonstrates their value.

Originality/value

The paper groups together the findings of use of a variety of scenistic methods of training. There has been practically no research reported in recent years of the efficacy of methods such as these that use cases, incidents, stories, etc. to ground training and practice.
Training evaluation: an analysis of the stakeholders' evaluation needs
Authors: Guerci Marco , Vinante Marco
Published: May 2011

Purpose

In recent years, the literature on program evaluation has examined multi‐stakeholder evaluation, but training evaluation models and practices have not generally taken this problem into account. The aim of this paper is to fill this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identifies intersections between methodologies and approaches of participatory evaluation, and techniques and evaluation tools typically used for training. The study focuses on understanding the evaluation needs of the stakeholder groups typically involved in training programs. A training program financed by the European Social Fund in Italy is studied, using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies (in‐depth interviews and survey research).

Findings

The findings are as follows: first, identification of evaluation dimensions not taken into account in the return on investment training evaluation model of training evaluation, but which are important for satisfying stakeholders' evaluation needs; second, identification of convergences/divergences between stakeholder groups' evaluation needs; and third, identification of latent variables and convergences/divergences in the attribution of importance to them among stakeholders groups.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitations of the research are the following: first, the analysis was based on a single training program; second, the study focused only on the pre‐conditions for designing a stakeholder‐based evaluation plan; and third, the analysis considered the attribution of importance by the stakeholders without considering the development of consistent and reliable indicators.

Practical implications

These results suggest that different stakeholder groups have different evaluation needs and, in operational terms are aware of the convergence and divergence between those needs.

Originality/value

The results of the research are useful in identifying: first, the evaluation elements that all stakeholder groups consider important; second, evaluation elements considered important by one or more stakeholder groups, but not by all of them; and third, latent variables which orient stakeholders groups in training evaluation.
The origins of British cybernetics: the Ratio Club
Authors: Holland Owen , Husbands Phil
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the origins, members, activities, and influence of the Ratio Club, a British cybernetic dining club that met between 1949 and 1958. Although its membership included some of the best known British cyberneticists, such as Grey Walter and Ross Ashby, along with pioneering scientists such as Alan Turing, the club is poorly documented, and its significance is difficult to establish from published sources.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involved the consultation and analysis of unpublished material in both private and public archives in the UK and the USA, coupled with interviews with surviving members, guests, and contemporaries.

Findings

The Ratio Club grew out of a distinctively British strand of cybernetic activity that was mainly fuelled by the deployment of biologists to engineering activities during the Second World War. It was also strongly influenced by the approach of the psychologist Kenneth Craik. Although members were keenly aware of contemporary American developments, such as Wiener's approach to the mathematics of control, and the psychological and sociological concerns of the Macy Conference, the emphasis of the club was on the application of cybernetic ideas and information theory to biology and the brain. In contrast to the wide influence the later Macy conferences exercised through their published transcripts, the Ratio Club influenced its core disciplines though its members, several of whom became prominent and effective advocates of the cybernetic approach.

Originality/value

This is the first journal paper to give an authoritative, detailed, and accurate account of the club's origins, activities, and importance.
Elementary sub‐atomic particles: the earliest adaptive systems
Authors: Blackwell Grahame
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper considers a perspective on particulate matter as being formed from closed loops of waveform energy flow, consistent with observations by de Broglie, Schrödinger and others and supported by recent research findings. It demonstrates that all experimentally verified findings of special relativity may be derived directly from such a model. It further shows a clear form of auto‐adaptive behaviour exhibited by such structures.

Design/methodology/approach

A generalised closed‐loop energy flow model is analysed from first principles.

Findings

Motion‐dependent time dilation, invariance of the measured speed of light, the Lorentz transformation, mass‐energy equivalence (E=mc2) and speed‐related increase in apparent mass all follow naturally from this structure. Given this view of matter objective invariance of the speed of light relative to all inertial states of motion is an unnecessary and insupportable assumption. A unique objective rest frame (subject to Hubble expansion of space) is identified. All elementary sub‐atomic particles owe their longevity to a non‐destructive state‐change response to energy input, referred to as “motion”. A radically new perspective on time is presented. A possible causal explanation for particle‐antiparticle asymmetry is identified.

Research limitations/implications

Closed timelike curves are not a possibility. Further implications for all fields of physics are very extensive.

Practical implications

There is no conflict between superluminal technologies and causality. Over and above this, possible practical implications are too extensive to be enumerated.

Originality/value

The paper is totally original and of significant potential value in various respects.
Pansystems 0**‐logoi of philosophy, mathematics, technology, systems and society
Authors: Xuemou Wu
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to state new formulation of the programme‐styled framework of pansystems research and related expansions.

Design/methodology/approach

Pansystems‐generalized extremum principle (0**: (dy/dx=0)**) is presented with recognitions to various logoi of philosophy, mathematics, technology, systems, cybernetics, informatics, relativity, biology, society, resource, communications and related topics: logic, history, humanities, aesthetics, journalism, IT, AI, TGBZ* , etc. including recent rediscoveries of 50 or so pansystems logoi.

Findings

A keynote of the paper is to develop the deep logoi of the analytic mathematics, analytic mechanics, variational principles, Hilbert's sixth/23rd problems, pan‐axiomatization to encyclopedic principles and various applications. The 0**‐universal connections embody the transfield internet‐styled academic tendency of pansystems exploration.

Originality/value

The paper includes topics: history megawave, pansystems sublation‐modes, pan‐metaphysics, pansystems dialogs with logoi of 100 thinkers or so, and pansystems‐sublation for a series of logoi concerning the substructure of encyclopedic dialogs such as systems, derivative, extremum, quantification, variational principle, equation, symmetry, OR, optimization, approximation, yinyang, combination, normality‐abnormality, framework, modeling, simulation, relativity, recognition, practice, methodology, mathematics, operations and transformations, quotientization, product, clustering, Banach completeness theorem, Weierstrass approximation theorem, Jackson approximation theorem, Taylor theorem, approximation transformation theorems due to Walsh‐Sewell mathematical school, Hilbert problems, Cauchy theorem, theorems of equation stability, function theory, logic, paradox, axiomatization, cybernetics, dialectics, multistep decision, computer, synergy, vitality and the basic logoi for history, ethics, economics, society OR, aesthetics, journalism, institution, resource and traffics, AI, IT, etc.
An enhanced fuzzy H∞ estimator applied to low‐cost attitude‐heading reference system
Authors: Keighobadi Jafar , Yazdanpanah Mohammad‐Javad , Kabganian Mansour
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the process of design and implementation of an enhanced fuzzy H∞ (EFH∞) estimation algorithm to determine the attitude and heading angles of ground vehicles, which are frequently affected by considerable exogenous disturbances. To detect the changes of disturbances, a fuzzy system is designed based on expert knowledge and experiences of a navigation engineer. In the EFH∞ estimator, the intensity bounds of disturbances affecting the measurements are updated using a heuristic combination of three change‐detection indices. Performance of the proposed estimator is evaluated by Monte‐Carlo simulations and field tests of three kinds of vehicles using a manufactured attitude‐heading reference system (AHRS). In both simulations and real tests, the proposed estimator results in a superior performance compared to those of the recently developed and standard H∞ estimators.

Design/methodology/approach

Design, implementation and real tests of the EFH∞ estimator are considered for an AHRS specialized for vehicular applications. In the AHRS, three‐axis accelerometers (TAA) and three‐axis magnetometers (TAM) may be affected by large disturbances due to non‐gravitational accelerations and local magnetic fields. Therefore, the design parameters of EFH∞ estimator including the theoretic bound of disturbance intensity and the attenuation level are adaptively tuned using a fuzzy combination of three change‐detection indices. Once a sensor is affected by an exogenous disturbance, the fuzzy system will increase the scale factor of the corresponding measurement disturbance to place more confidence on the data of the AHRS dynamics including measurements of gyros with respect to the data coming from the TAA and TAM.

Findings

An intelligent fault detector is proposed for considering changes of disturbances to adjust the upper bounds of the estimator's disturbances and the length of data to update the fuzzy system inputs. The EFH∞ estimator is suitable to attenuate the effects of disturbances changes on accurate estimation of the attitude and heading angles, intelligently.

Originality/value

The paper provides a fuzzy state estimator for adaptively adjusting the theoretic disturbance matrices according to the actual intensity of the disturbances affecting the AHRS dynamics and the measurement sensors.
Second thoughts on global warming
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The widely accepted view that global warming is man‐made and largely due to carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has been disputed in a powerful and closely argued “critique” reviewed here, including some retraction by James Lovelock. Attention is drawn to a new online video on the life and contributions of the economist Adam Smith, and to development of the smallest‐ever diamond transistor. The death of the experimental psychologist Richard Gregory is reported.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Findings

The main finding is that currently accepted views of anthropomorphic global warming are subject to serious doubt.

Practical implications

It seems likely that the “greenhouse” effect of carbon dioxide can be discounted, allowing major revisions of energy policy and increased exploitation of fossil fuel resources, though with attention also to renewable sources that will be needed when the fossil fuels run out. The diamond transistor will eventually allow increase in speed in digital devices.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
Country image, informational influence, collectivism/individualism, and brand loyalty: exploring the automobile purchase patterns of Chinese Americans
Authors: Wu Guohua
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The intent of this article is to explore the automobile purchase patterns of Chinese Americans by examining factors driving an intriguing phenomenon – most Chinese Americans prefer Japanese or European brands of automobiles over US brands.

Design/methodology/approach

This article uses data from a sample of 150 respondents using a mall‐intercept survey method. Regression, analysis of variance and Chi‐square analysis were employed. The factors examined include country image, informational influence, collectivism/individualism, and brand loyalty.

Findings

This study has four findings. In their automobile purchase decision making, Chinese Americans perceive the country image of Japan most favorably, that of US least favorably, and that of Europe in‐between. Country image is important, but it is less so than other extrinsic cues such as price, brand name and service, with reliability and safety being the most important intrinsic cues. Opinions of family and friends are important, second to prior knowledge and information from consumer reports. Chinese Americans' collectivism is positively related to their susceptibility to interpersonal informational influence, yet their individualism is not. Chinese Americans are not brand loyal.

Practical implications

The article helps automobile marketers refine their marketing mix to attract Chinese American buyers. A reliable and safe automobile is the most important factor that affects their purchase decisions. Media advertising and salespeople have only marginal influence. Therefore the advice is to strengthen or improve interpersonal influence.

Originality/value

No prior research has examined the automobile purchase patterns of Chinese Americans, who, in 2006, constituted 1.2 percent of the US population, with appealing demographics to marketers.
Anxiety and search during food choice: the moderating role of attitude towards nutritional claims
Authors: Hansen Torben , Mukherjee Ashesh , Uth Thomsen Thyra
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of anxiety on information search during food choice and to test a key moderator of the effect of anxiety on search, namely attitude towards nutritional claims.

Design/methodology/approach

By means of qualitative study the paper investigates the notion that consumers experience anxiety about health outcomes during food choice. Further, by means of structural equation modelling based on two studies with representative samples of Danish consumers, the paper investigates the effects outlined above.

Findings

The authors show that anxiety during food choice increases information search in four product categories – ready dinner meals, salad dressing, biscuits, and cakes. Further, the results show that the positive effect of anxiety on information search is stronger when consumers have a less favourable attitude towards nutritional claims on the product label.

Practical implications

The results suggest that anxiety during food choice is desirable from the consumer welfare point of view since it leads to more informed consumers. The results also indicate that public policy makers should educate consumers to be critical about nutritional claims, since this would increase consumers' propensity to search for health information. In turn, from a managerial point of view this suggests that providers of healthy food should provide extended health information for consumers that are sceptical about nutritional claims since their scepticism towards this type of condensed information will in fact motivate extended information search.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to research in marketing on food choice and consumption: a consumption area that is important but difficult to navigate due to an increasing complexity of nutritional information at the point of sale. This paper demonstrates that situational, choice‐based anxiety and scepticism towards nutritional claims may actually be good things by prompting consumers to undertake search, and hence ultimately make more informed choices.