bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigid quantum Monte Carlo simulations of condensed molecular matter: Water clusters in the n=2→8 range
Authors: Langley Stephen F. , Curotto E. , Freeman D. L. , Doll J. D.
Published: February 2007

The numerical advantage of quantum Monte Carlo simulations of rigid bodies relative to the flexible simulations is investigated for some simple systems. The results show that if high frequency modes in molecular condensed matter are predominantly in the ground state, the convergence of path integral simulations becomes nonuniform. Rigid body quantum parallel tempering simulations are necessary to accurately capture thermodynamic phenomena in the temperature range where the dynamics are influenced by intermolecular degrees of freedom; the stereographic projection path integral adapted for quantum simulations of asymmetric tops is a significantly more efficient strategy compared with Cartesian coordinate simulations for molecular condensed matter under these conditions. The reweighted random series approach for stereographic path integral Monte Carlo is refined and implemented for the quantum simulation of water clusters treated as an assembly of rigid asymmetric tops.
Real-time image compression for high-speed particle tracking
Authors: Chan King-Yeung , Stich Dominik , Voth Greg A.
Published: February 2007

High-speed particle tracking with digital video creates very large data rates and as a result experimenters are forced to make compromises between spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and the duration over which data is acquired. The images produced in particle tracking experiments typically contain a large amount of black space with relatively few bright pixels and this suggests the possibility of image compression. This paper describes a system for real-time compression of high-speed video. A digital circuit placed between the camera (500 Hz, 1280×1024 pixels) and frame grabber compresses data in real-time by comparing input pixels with a threshold value and outputs a vector containing the brightness and position of the bright pixels. In a typical experiment, the compression ratio for an image ranges from 100 to 1000 and varies dynamically depending on the number of filtered pixels. The reduced data rate makes it possible to write directly to the hard disk. While previously data could only be acquired for 6.5 s into 4 GB of dedicated video RAM, the new system could acquire full resolution data continuously for up to a week into a 600 GB hard drive.
Photoelastic effects in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-29%PbTiO3 single crystals investigated by three-point bending technique
Authors: Di Na , Quesnel David J.
Published: February 2007

Photoelastic effects in an unpoled Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-29%PbTiO3 (PMN-29%PT) single-crystal beam have been investigated using three-point bending experiments. A linear relationship between the applied load and the measured displacement was observed up to a proportional limit of ∼30 MPa. Beyond this proportional limit, yielding was observed. Samples were loaded as high as 77 MPa without fracture. Young’s modulus Y⟨001⟩∼1.9×1010 N/m2 was determined directly from the initially linear region using beam theory. The photoelastic fringe order versus fiber stress plot also displays an initially linear region up to a proportional limit of ∼20 MPa, suggesting that optical measurements are a more sensitive measure of the onset of microplasticity than mechanical measurements. Residual photoelastic fringes associated with yielding were completely removable by annealing above the Curie temperature, implying that plastic deformation occurs by reversible processes such as domain switching and phase transformation. The stress-optical coefficient for unpoled PMN-29%PT determined from the initially linear region of the fringe order versus fiber stress curve is 104×10−12 Pa−1. This value is large and comparable with the stress-optical coefficient of polycarbonate, making unpoled PMN-29%PT single crystal a good candidate for optical stress sensors and acousto-optic modulators.
A comparative study on nanotextured high density Mg-doped and undoped GaN
Authors: Pal Suparna , Ingale Alka , Dixit V. K. , Sharma T. K. , Porwal S. , Tiwari Pragya , Nath A. K.
Published: February 2007

Nanotextured high density Mg-doped and undoped GaN were obtained using photoelectrochemical etching. Interesting features are observed in the temperature dependent photoluminescence (PL) studies of these nanotextured materials. First, the PL intensity of the excitonic emissions shows more than three orders of enhancement. At low temperature, the peak energy shows a blueshift with temperature. This phenomenon is attributed to the formation of excitonic band-tail states. Second, the excitonic emissions in the nanotextured samples are redshifted compared to the as-grown GaN suggesting strain relaxation. Third, the blue luminescence band (2.7–2.9eV in Mg-doped GaN) shows a large redshift, which is not consistent with strain relaxation calculated from excitonic band. Furthermore, temperature dependence of the blue luminescence band energy shows an asymmetric S-shaped behavior in nanotextured GaN. All these observations are explained by invoking an increase in carrier localization due to an increase in potential fluctuation created by the nanotexturization process.
Variable Rowland radius laboratory vacuum surface-sensitive x-ray absorption fine structure spectrometer
Authors: Yuryev Yu. N. , Lee Hwack-Joo , Park Hyun-Min , Cho Yang-Koo , Lee Min-Kyu , Pogrebitsky K. Ju.
Published: February 2007

A new laboratory x-ray spectrometer for surface-sensitive extended x-ray absorption fine structure [(S)EXAFS] and surface-sensitive x-ray absorption near-edge structure [(S)XANES] measurements is described. The spectrometer employs a 12kVmA rotating anode generator. It has a monochromator equipped with a set of exchangeable curved crystals of Johann or Johansson type with different cell parameters, orientations, and Rowland radii. The computer controlled movement system based on nine stepping motors allows all the main elements of the spectrometer to be positioned freely relative to the x-ray source and gives an opportunity to use sophisticated scanning modes (for example, a mode with a focus spot position on a sample surface instead of an exit slit). The whole x-ray beam line is completely enclosed in a vacuum chamber that is directly connected to the x-ray generator, thereby preventing the absorption of x rays in the air. This layout allows a wide x-ray photon energy range from a few keV up to dozens of keV. A registration of x rays transmitted through the sample with proportional counter- and photoelectrons emitted from the sample with channeltron is used to carry out bulk- and surface-sensitive measurements, respectively. Using a 25×200kVmA power regime of a rotating anode x-ray generator, a photon flux of 2.5×105counts∕s was registered at the Cu K edge, where the energy resolution was about 5eV. High near surface sensitivity is demonstrated by the EXAFS spectra of Cu K and Hf LIII edges measured from 3nm Cu and Hf oxide films.
Characterization of one-dimensional position sensitive detectors with improved efficiency and position resolution for neutron spectrometers
Authors: Desai S. S. , Shaikh A. M.
Published: February 2007

Development and characterization of one-dimentional (1D) position sensitive detectors (PSDs) with improved efficiency and position resolution for neutron scattering applications are reported. The PSDs are characterized for energy resolution, count rate capability, sensitivity, efficiency, position resolution, and uniformity of response over the sensitive length. The studies are carried out to verify the dependence of position resolution on detector geometry, electronic noise, and stopping power of the fill gas. One of the PSDs is mounted on the small angle neutron scattering spectrometer and spectra from CTAB micelle sample are recorded using 5.4Å neutrons. A gain of factors 1.1 and 1.2 is obtained compared to earlier in house made 1D PSD and LND-made 1D PSD, respectively. The diffraction patterns from standard vanadium, nickel, and silicon samples are recorded on a powder diffractometer using newly designed PSDs. Gain in efficiency obtained at shorter wavelength of 0.783Å is by a factor of 1.6. All high pressure PSDs show improvement in the position resolution by 2–3mm. It is observed that 1D PSD filled with isobutane as stopping gas improves the gamma tolerance and position resolution at lower partial pressures as compared to Kr. It is advantageous to use two or more 36C-type PSDs stacked together. It is economic and gives better efficiency due to scanning more beam height.
Rapid shear of initially anisotropic turbulence in a rotating frame
Authors: Akylas E. , Kassinos S. C. , Langer C. A.
Published: February 2007

In the present study, we investigate, using inviscid rapid distortion theory, the evolution of sheared turbulence in a rotating frame as a function of the rotation rate (including stable, transitional, and unstable regimes), and examine the sensitivity of the results for various nonisotropic initial conditions. Analytical solutions are derived for the evolution of the stresses and the structure dimensionality tensor components for three one-dimensional and three two-dimensional initializations. From these solutions, we calculate the asymptotic states of the turbulence, which are compared to the exact numerical solution of the three-dimensional initially isotropic case. From the investigation it is shown that the qualitative characteristics of the isotropic solution in the unstable regime are represented quite accurately when the initial turbulence is dependent at least on the axis of the rotation of the frame. For the transitional and the stable regimes, though, the initial dependence of the turbulence on the axis of the mean flow is also crucial.
Effect of photon irradiation on conductivity of nanoscale yttria-doped zirconia thin films
Authors: Karthikeyan Annamalai , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: February 2007

The effect of photon irradiation on high temperature conductivity of nanoscale yttria-doped zirconia thin films is reported. Nanoscale films show substantial decrease in total conductivity (as high as ∼40%) during ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, while the conductivity of bulk single crystals shows negligible changes. The UV induced conductivity changes are rapid and reversible and activation energies for ion migration remain unaffected. The reduction in conductivity may arise from changes in effective oxygen vacancy concentration. Such UV-influenced alteration of electrical properties offers an elegant route to tailor surface catalytic activity of oxygen ion and mixed conductors used in various solid-state devices.
Multiscale model for atomic force microscope array mechanical behavior
Authors: Lenczner M.
Published: February 2007

The author presents a first simplified two-scale model of the elastic structure of an atomic force microscope array. It can be used for rapid prototyping and for designing model based control loops. Its derivation is based on the concept of two-scale approximation.
High temperature rapid thermal annealing of phosphorous ion implanted InAs∕InP quantum dots
Authors: Barik S. , Tan H. H. , Jagadish C.
Published: February 2007

The effect of high temperature annealing of the InAs∕InP quantum dots (QDs) containing a thin GaAs interlayer is investigated. The QDs are rapid thermally annealed at 750, 800, 850, and 900°C for 30s. The QDs with the GaAs interlayer show good thermal stability up to 850°C as well as enhanced integrated photoluminescence (PL) intensity and reduced PL linewidth. The effect of high energy (450keV) phosphorous ion implantation at room temperature with doses of 5×1011–5×1013ions∕cm2 with subsequent high temperature (750–850°C) rapid thermal annealing is also studied. A large implantation-induced energy shift of up to 309meV (400nm) is observed. The implanted samples annealed at 850°C show reduced PL linewidth and enhanced integrated PL intensity compared to the implanted samples annealed at 750°C.
Scanning tunneling microscopy study of interfacial structure of InAs quantum dots on InP(001) grown by a double-cap method
Authors: Akanuma Y. , Yamakawa I. , Sakuma Y. , Usuki T. , Nakamura A.
Published: February 2007

The interfacial properties of InAs self-assembled quantum dots (QDs) on InP(001) grown by the double-capped method by metal-organic chemical-vapor deposition have been investigated by means of cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). Truncated pyramidal QDs with a monolayer-step height in the range of 6–14 ML are observed in the STM images, and their top and bottom interfaces are extremely sharp. On the side of the QDs, however, segregation of As atoms is observed, which suggests that the migration of As atoms from the QDs takes place by As∕P exchange during the cap and etching processes in the double-cap procedure.
Attention and Spatial Resolution: A Theoretical and Experimental Study of Visual Search in Hierarchical Patterns
Authors: Deco Gustavo , Heinke Dietmar
Published: February 2007

Our aim has been to study visual search in hierarchical patterns through a computational neuroscience perspective. In this way we were able to analyse the relationship between the global precedence effect and attention. The theoretical part of our investigations extended a model built upon the biased-competition hypothesis. An important feature of this extension is that different spatial frequencies are processed with different time constants. Simulations with this model resulted in specific predictions that were confirmed with a novel visual-search experiment utilising hierarchical patterns. Both experiment and simulations suggest that the global-precedence effect prevails under the condition of visual search.
Challenges Faced by Hospital Healthcare Workers in Using a Syndrome-Based Surveillance System During the 2003 Outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Fuh-Yuan , Yen Muh-Yong , Wu Jiunn-Shyan , Chang Fang-Kuei , Lin Lih-Wen , Ho Mei-Shang , Hsiung Chao A. , Su Ih-Jen , Marx Melissa A. , Sobel Howard , King Chwan-Chuen
Published: February 2007

Because the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in Taiwan in 2003 was worsened by hospital infections, we analyzed 229 questionnaires (84.8% of 270 sent) completed by surveyed healthcare workers who cared for patients with SARS in 3 types of hospitals, to identify surveillance problems. Atypical clinical presentation was the most often reported problem, regardless of hospital type, which strongly indicates that more timely syndromic surveillance was needed.
Prevalence and Clinical Relevance ofStaphylococcus warneriin the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Cimiotti Jeannie P. , Haas Janet P. , Della-Latta Phyllis , Wu Fann , Saiman Lisa , Larson Elaine L.
Published: February 2007

Objective.

To describe the prevalence ofStaphylococcus warnerion the hands of nurses and the clinical relevance of this organism among neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Design.

Prospective cohort study that examined the microbial flora on the hands of nurses and clinical isolates recovered from neonates during a 23-month period (March 1, 2001, through January 31, 2003).

Setting.

Two high-risk NICUs in New York City.

Participants.

All neonates hospitalized in the NICUs for more than 24 hours and all full-time nurses from the same NICUs who volunteered to participate.

Intervention.

At baseline and then every 3 months, samples for culture were obtained from each nurse's cleaned dominant hand. Pulsed-field electrophoresis comparedS. warneriisolates from neonates and staff.

Results.

Samples for culture (n= 834) were obtained from the hands of 119 nurses; 520 (44%) of the 1,195 isolates of coagulase-negative staphylococci recovered were identified asS. warneri. Of the 647 clinically relevant isolates recovered from neonates, 17 (8%) of the 202 isolates that were identified to species level wereS. warneri. Pulsed-field electrophoresis revealed a common strain ofS. warnerithat was shared among the nurses and neonates. Furthermore, 117 (23%) of 520S. warneriisolates from nurses' hands had minimum inhibitory concentrations for vancomycin of 4μg/mL, which indicate decreasing susceptibility.

Conclusions.

Our findings thatS. warnerican be pathogenic in neonates, is a predominant species of coagulase-negative staphylococci cultured from the hands of nurses, and has decreased vancomycin susceptibility underscore the importance of continued surveillance for vancomycin resistance and pathogenicity in pediatric care settings.
Nonplanar LEO‐LEO aeroassisted space rendezvous
Authors: Chen Hongbo , Yang Di
Published: February 2007

Purpose

In order to solve nonplanar LEO‐LEO aeroassisted space rendezvous, this paper aims to study an active phasing method based on orbital preliminary adjusting scheme out of atmosphere.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to add atmospheric entry velocity, orbital preliminary adjusting out of atmosphere is presented and the orbital altitude of high earth orbit (HEO) is selected eclectically. Nonplanar HEO‐LEO aeroassisted orbital transfer problem is studied in detail. According to the standard atmospheric flight trajectory, the locations of deorbit points in HEO are determined and the standard phase angle between orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) in HEO and target in low earth orbit (LEO) is obtained so that OTV and target meet space rendezvous demand. Finally, the active phasing method is studied so that the standard phase angle can be satisfied when OTV is transferred to HEO. So space rendezvous can be realized under the help of aeroassisted orbital transfer technique once the standard phase angle is satisfied.

Findings

Nonplanar LEO‐LEO orbital transfer depending on entirely propulsive will use enormous fuel and the phasing problem will be most difficult in nonplanar LEO‐LEO space rendezvous mission. However, the fuel consumption can be saved and rendezvous mission can be finished in an advisable time when nonplanar LEO‐LEO aeroassisted orbital transfer technology is applied properly.

Originality/value

Aeroassisted space rendezvous method is presented in this paper. Orbital preliminary adjusting out of atmosphere is studied in order to add atmospheric entry velocity and the active phasing method for realizing space rendezvous is integrated in preliminary adjusting scheme.
Task automation for modelling solids with Catia V5
Authors: Gloria Del Río‐Cidoncha María , Martínez‐Palacios Juan , Ortuño‐Ortiz Francisco
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The main goal of this paper is to show how the automation of tasks in solid modelling with Catia V5 is approached, by means of macros, working under the Windows operating system and with the Visual BASIC programming language. A macro is a piece of code (written in a certain programming language) which groups a set of operations that define a certain task.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is divided into three parts. In the first one, the necessary concepts to begin working with macros are discussed: the programming languages (object‐oriented), compatible with Catia V5, are introduced. The handling of macros, like the one of the fundamental objects of the application, is explained as well. In the second part, the different objects on which the macros for solid modelling are based are described, explaining how they are used and how they are related to one another. In the third and last part, several applications which clarify the use of the studied tools, and which show the great utility of the macros, are included.

Findings

Using macros can automate design tasks which are performed repetitively, as well as carry out new operations (features) which facilitate the modelling process and which are not included in the order menu by default.

Originality/value

Power and versatility of macros as a task‐automation tool is shown, as well as how simple, fast and efficient it is to program them in Visual BASIC.
The destructive forces of human resources – turning people management and development initiatives into positive impactors
Authors: Pritchard Neville
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide consideration for debate with respect to the role of specialists in HR and people support and development roles, their current dilemma and potential solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon experience from working at senior levels within FTSE 100 companies over the past 20 years, wider experience gained from benchmark groups and association and institute roles. The paper is a reflection on the HR journey in the past ten years, its struggle to justify and its need to contribute.

Findings

The intent behind a number of people related initiatives have had variable impact on organization performance, employee engagement and capability levels. The direct contribution of specialists has not always been helped through organization design. The need for depth of knowledge, genuine business application, managed communication frameworks and collaboration across related functions is paramount to taking a grip of HR contribution and maximizing the potential of component roles.

Practical implications

Review of HR in terms of alignment, integration, governance, efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. Additionally a shift in mindset from justifying to contributing through teamwork and collaboration.

Originality/value

The AIGEES framework of review and the consequences in terms of organizing people related functions within organizations to maximize contribution. For anyone working within and having responsibility for HR/ Development functions
Can two established information models explain the information behaviour of visually impaired people seeking health and social care information?
Authors: Beverley C.A. , Bath P.A. , Barber R.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which two existing models of information behaviour could explain the information behaviour of visually impaired people seeking health and social care information.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted within a constructivist paradigm. A total of 28 semi‐structured interviews (face‐to‐face or telephone) with 31 visually impaired people were conducted. Framework analysis was used to analyse the results.

Findings

This study identified several factors that may affect a visually impaired person's information behaviour. These related to the presence of other health conditions or disabilities, participants' understanding of the word “information”, their interactions with information providers, their degree of independence, the support they received from friends and family, their acceptance of their own visual impairment, as well as their awareness of other visual impairments, their registration status and their willingness and ability to pay for aids, adaptations and equipment.

Originality/ value

This study provides a new and valuable insight into the information behaviour of visually impaired people, as well as testing the applicability of a specific and generic information model to the information behaviour of visually impaired people seeking health and social care information.
Knowledge of information behaviour and its relevance to the design of people‐centred information products and services
Authors: Hepworth Mark
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is first to highlight some of the social phenomena that are driving the design of people‐centred information solutions; second, to develop a broad ontology of information behaviour research that serves to identify factors that should be taken into account when designing such solutions. Finally, the author illustrates how this knowledge is being applied in the design of people‐centred inclusive information products and services.

Design/methodology/approach

The author draws on the information behaviour literature to highlight key drivers and to develop and illustrate the ontological framework. The significance of this framework is then demonstrated by providing examples of how this knowledge has been applied in the design of people‐centred inclusive information products and services.

Research limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper and based on the informed, subjective analysis of previous research. However, relating theory to practice does provide an indication of the validity of this conception of one's knowledge of information behaviour to people‐centred design.

Originality/value

The paper helps to provide an overview of information behaviour research, the nature of the domain and the levels of abstraction. The article also makes a direct link between the theoretical world of information behaviour research and the empirical world of people‐centred design. Hence, it also presents a case for the importance of the body of knowledge that people in information science refer to as information behaviour.
What is enough? Satisficing information needs
Authors: Prabha Chandra , Silipigni Connaway Lynn , Olszewski Lawrence , Jenkins Lillie R.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to understand how users know when to stop searching for more information when the information space is so saturated that there is no certainty that the relevant information has been identified.

Design/methodology/approach

Faculty, undergraduate and graduate students participated in focus group interviews to investigate what leads them to satisfice their information needs.

Findings

Academic library users describe both qualitative and quantitative criteria, which lead them to make rational choices determining when “enough” information satisfices their need. The situational context of both the participants' specific information need and their role in academic society affects every stage of their search – from the selection of the first resource, to ongoing search strategies, to decisions on how much information is enough.

Originality/value

These findings broaden the scope of earlier user research, which tends to focus on the more static views of habitual information‐seeking and ‐searching behavior, by applying theoretical frameworks for a richer understanding of the users' experiences.
Reclassification project at St Martin's College: a case study
Authors: Weaver Margaret , Stanning Michael
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to outline the approach taken to the reclassification of the library collection within a small multi‐site college of higher education – whereby 160,000 volumes were converted from the BLISS system to the Dewey Decimal Classification system, over a period of 11 weeks during Summer 2004.

Design/methodology/approach

An automated approach was taken whereby the Library Systems Supplier – Talis was commissioned to convert catalogue records using a batch process. Risk analysis and critical path analysis were used as tools to keep the project on schedule and provide quality control.

Findings

An automated approach allowed the project to be completed on time, within budget and with minimal disruption to services. Project planning was crucial to the success of the project. This included mapping BLISS to Dewey numbers, recruitment of a student team, management of work packages and ensuring continuity of the Library Service during the project.

Practical implications

Institutional support for the project was secured because of its relevance to the College's corporate agenda and the promise of a wider impact that the project would have in terms of modernisation of the library service.

Originality/value

Despite the apparent lack of current articles on re‐classification, many libraries are still grappling with ongoing retrospective cataloguing projects. This case study demonstrates how one institution approached the problem and demonstrates that an automated approach can yield benefits. It will be of use to other libraries thinking of, or involved with, similar conversions. The partnership role of the Library Management System Supplier is also highlighted.
Using old concepts to gain new insights: addressing the issue of consistency
Authors: Jones Colin
Published: February 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to go beyond a bookkeeping approach to evolutionary analysis whereby surviving firms are better adapted and extinct firms were less adapted. From discussion of the preliminary findings of research into the Hobart pizza industry, evidence is presented of the need to adopt a more traditional approach to applying evolutionary theories with organizational research.

Design/methodology/approach

After a brief review of the relevant literature, the preliminary findings of research into the Hobart pizza industry are presented. Then, several evolutionary concepts that are commonplace in ecological research are introduced to help explain the emergent findings. The paper concludes with consideration given to advancing a more consistent approach to employing evolutionary theories within organizational research.

Findings

The paper finds that the process of selection cannot be assumed to occur evenly across time and/or space. Within geographically small markets different forms of selection operate in different ways and degrees requiring the use of more traditional evolutionary theories to highlight the causal process associated with population change.

Research limitations/implications

The paper concludes by highlighting Geoffrey Hodgson's Principle of Consistency. It is demonstrated that a failure to truly understand how and why theory is used in one domain will likely result in its misuse in another domain. That, at present, too few evolutionary concepts are employed in organisational research to ensure an appreciation of any underlying causal processes through which social change occurs.

Originality/value

The concepts introduced throughout this paper, whilst not new, provide new entry points for organizational researchers intent on employing an evolutionary approach to understand the process of social change.
Ethical behavior and social responsibility in organizations: process and evaluation
Authors: Fray Anne Marie
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the difficulty inherent in maintaining long‐term ethical behaviours in organisations. Such ethical behaviours are not always clearly identified in terms of their priorities, and interpretation methods (laws, directives, rating agencies) highlight the heterogeneity of indicators and processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows that an exploratory qualitative survey, based on interviews with managers and company documents, was conducted on a panel of six organisations to explore their key ethical points and identified weaknesses (interviews, company and/or rating agency documents). The reality surrounding these companies, rated in accordance with their social responsibility and ethical behaviours, demonstrates a major inadequacy to clarify their conduct and a dilution of values when taking action.

Findings

The paper is based on past research; the author proposes three guiding questions aimed at palliating the difficulties faced in maintaining ethical behaviours both in time and in the geographical space. It explores a series of processes permitting the establishment of points of reference and the subsequent evaluation of the different stages, focusing on the values ensuring a performance link and strengthening the managerial axis as a vector of ethics.

Originality/value

The paper challenges the notion of ratings based on non‐long‐term effects, yet, while underlining the difficulty of the exercise, also proposes possible solutions to ensure sustainability. It takes account of the limitations of a debate based on an exploratory survey, but opens the way for subsequent research connecting the proposed paths to the concept of sustainable ethics inscribed in the context of overall performance.
Automation and networking of public libraries in India using the e‐Granthalaya software from the National Informatics Centre
Authors: Matoria Ram Kumar , Upadhyay P.K. , Moni Madaswamy
Published: February 2007

Purpose

To describe the development of the library management system, e‐Granthalaya, for public libraries in India. This is an initiative of the Indian government's National Informatics Centre (NIC). The paper outlines the challenges and the potential of a full‐scale deployment of this software at a national level.

Design/methodology/approach

The project is being implemented in various phases depending on the funds, infrastructure and willingness of the various state governments and library authorities. This case study provides an understanding of the challenges confronted by the NIC in the scale and scope of the deployment of e‐Granthalaya. The national effort towards a “single window access” is constructively undertaken with an infrastructure deployment phase followed by a services integration phase: both of these are undertaken in tandem with local conditions and technological developments.

Findings

The proposed end‐product is a web‐based online library service connecting public libraries in India and integrating library services in a “single window access”. The authors conclude that there is a need for greater orchestration of funding provision, acquisitions of systems, data entry of catalogues, hosting and so on.

Research limitations/implications

The project will be useful as a model for the automation, networking and federating of resources for other groups of libraries in India.

Originality/value

The paper is a case study of design, development and implementation of the e‐Granthalaya software in India's public libraries.
Vitamins and minerals: powerful medicine or potent toxins?
Authors: Tran Elizabeth , Demmig‐Adams Barbara
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to summarize the available literature on the effect of vitamin and mineral supplements, especially in doses exceeding recommended daily allowances.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive search and analysis of original, peer‐reviewed literature on supplementation studies was conducted.

Findings

High doses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful instead of beneficial. Supplementation of vitamins and minerals, in general, may be most beneficial, and perhaps only beneficial, to individuals with a nutrient‐deficient diet. Consumers thus need to be weary of the safety and efficacy of their supplements. While vitamins and minerals are vital to life, the optimal doses of each required nutrient are currently not known.

Research limitations/implications

Lack of standardization between studies makes it difficult to compare the results from different studies.Practical implications – Based on this review, a recommendation can be made to avoid high dose supplements and obtain vitamins from foods to the greatest extent possible.Originality/value – This review is unique in its comprehensive nature that allows the identification of common underlying problems with the supplementation of different groups of vitamins.
Wear analysis of centrifugal slurry pump impellers
Authors: Khalid Y.A. , Sapuan S.M.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

To design and fabricate a wear testing rig for a water pump impeller and to select a parameter that can be used to determine the wear rates of slurry pump impeller.

Design/methodology/approach

A wear equipment was designed and fabricated in this study that of main rotating shaft, supported by two ball bearings, and main electric motor bully mechanism for the rotational speed torque needed. An impeller made of cast iron was selected. The wear medium selected consists of solid particles and water. The tests were conducted by letting the impeller to rotate in slurry. The wear data collection are divided into impeller's weight loss, impeller's diameter loss, impeller blade's thickness loss, impeller's blade height loss and impeller's thickness change.

Findings

The major type of wear that takes place in this experiment is erosion. The weight loss of the impeller is due to the material removal from the impeller as result of erosion wear. The diameter loss of the impeller is attributed to the impingement of solid particles on the surface area. The surface topography under the microscope indicates that the region near the center of impeller encounters less wear compared to the region at the rim of the impeller.

Originality/value

From this study, among all the parameters studied, the height loss of impeller blades encounters the highest percentage of wear. This is useful for determining the running hours before the complete failure of the impeller for slurry and impeller types used in this study.
Wear performance of some phenolic composites with boric acid
Authors: Mutlu I. , Oner C. , Cevik I. , Findik F.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The aim of the research is to investigate wear performance of some phenolic composites with boric acid.

Design/methodology/approach

The brake lining which has new formulation has been produced by using various additive materials. Various techniques have been used in the production of brake lining. These phenolic composites were subjected to friction and wear tests under different loads, and changes in the hardness and microstructures were examined.

Findings

As a result of this study, the following findings are reported. It was not found a direct proportionality between hardness and wear resistance due to the complexity of composite structure. Heat treatment application changed the microstructure of the brake lining, and increased the hardness and also decreased the density. With the increasing of temperature, the ingredients in the braking pad were affected other due to faster diffusion. On the other hand, hardness of specimen increases due to heat treatment and also specific wear ratio changes. As a filling material, barite was used due to better performance in the environmental conditions. More wear was observed in the bigger powder particles comparing to the smaller ones due to more structural loss. Squealing was heard in fiber un‐reinforced brake lining due to more barite content. In the present samples, boric acid deports the water and establishing the structural equilibrium. Therefore, these samples supplied higher and stable friction of coefficient. Also, heat treatment supplied a stable friction coefficient. With the increasing of copper powder into specimens, friction coefficient also increased. Heat treatment made the increment of hardness of specimens and also it made effect on the hardness with strengthening bonds of interparticles.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations in the present research are as follows: two different pressures and eight different temperatures were used and brake linings were subjected to wear test, hardness tests, microstructures were examined.

Practical implications

For future work, instead of buying expensive brake lining, new and cheaper phenolic linings are produced. By this process, economic benefit can be gained and also environmental protection can be succeeded in producing such asbestos free brake linings.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified information and offers practical help to the industrial firms working with brake lining and also to the academicians working on wear of materials.
Toward large scale assessment of information and communication technology literacy
Authors: Somerville Mary M. , Lampert Lynn D. , Dabbour Katherine S. , Harlan Sallie , Schader Barbara
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide guidance to those contemplating or preparing to administer a large scale information literacy assessment such as the ETS ICT assessment instrument. The case studies and literature review provide real life examples of how to consider implementing the ETS ICT instrument with special attention to issues such as collaboration, timing, marketing, budgeting, and developing a strategy that includes a discussion of how testing results will inform campus information literacy curriculum development and programming.

Design/methodology/approach

The planning and implementation by two California State University campuses that administrated beta test versions of the ETS ICT assessment instrument are documented. Background about ICT and guidance for future administrations of large scale assessments on university and college campuses are discussed.

Findings

The paper provides background information, techniques and guidance for academic librarians contemplating future administrations and usages of large scale assessments of student information and communication technology skills, like the ETS ICT assessment. Examples of necessary planning stages and collaboration are provided as well as a discussion of the value of large scale assessments for students, campuses and information literacy programs.

Practical implications

This paper offers guidance for academic librarians and libraries interested in assessing their information literacy programs and/or working within their university to conduct a large scale assessment of student ICT literacy skills using the ETS ICT assessment instrument.

Originality/value

The strategies and ideas presented in this paper will help inform other academic libraries and librarians faced with administrating and implementing a large scale assessment instrument such as the ETS ICT instrument.
Stumbling, bumbling, teleporting and flying… librarian avatars in Second Life: selected bibliography
Authors: Grassian Esther , Trueman Rhonda B. , Clemson Patrice
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a selective bibliography for librarians and adminstrators in all types of libraries, with sources that can help them understand virtual worlds and their applications for libraries. Second Life is used as an example of virtual worlds.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors describe a range of primarily recent publications (2004‐2006), which aim to provide practical advice and information, to aid librarians and administrators seeking to understand and utilize virtual worlds.

Findings

Provides information about each source, indicating content and how the information can help. Acknowledges and explores the lack of knowledge among many librarians and administrators of expanded Web technologies like 3D virtual worlds and their reference, collections and information literacy applications, and provides an annotated list of helpful publications.

Research limitations/implications

This is not an exhaustive list and is particularly limited in numbers of research publications due to the fact that this technology is new and research in this area is only just emerging.

Practical implications

A useful source of information for librarians and administrators in all types of libraries considering exploring and experimenting with library services within virtual worlds.

Originality/value

This selected bibliography fulfills an identified information/resources need by offering a varied list of publications which can provide practical help to library workers supporting and venturing into the rapidly developing and high profile virtual worlds arena.
Knowledge management
Authors: Borges Tiago Maria Teresa , Pedro Almeida Couto João , Gomes Tiago Flávio , Cabral Vieira António
Published: February 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to determine whether the implementation of knowledge management (KM) is linked to e‐business performance and to identify the nature of the relationship existing in the different components of knowledge‐sharing and application and internet‐based KM.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper establishes a new model of the practices and results of the KM which has been tested in European companies. For that purpose, a structural equation modelling analysis was used.

Findings

The results show that product innovation and external employees’ access to databases have a strong positive effect on the maximization of internet‐based KM and that internet‐based KM has also a positive impact on e‐business performance.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this study include the need for more research into the KM cycle. This paper contributes to the research on this topic with new evidence in a broad sample.

Practical implications

These results point to KM's usefulness in improving every day e‐business processes. Therefore managers should be aware of these benefits.

Originality/value

The present study advances knowledge on the nature of the relative importance of different components of internet‐based KM as drivers of e‐business performance.
What impact has practitioner research had in the marketing academy?
Authors: Hubbard Raymond , Norman Andrew T.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

Given marketing's fundamentally applied nature, to compare the relative impacts in the academy of work published by three groups – practitioners, practitioner‐academic alliances, and academics.Design/methodology/approach – Social Sciences Citation Index data were used to estimate the influence of 438 articles published by practitioners, practitioner‐academic alliances, and academics in five marketing journals over the period 1970‐2000.Findings – Citations for academic research were more than twice as high as those for practitioners. Conversely, citations for practitioner‐academic research rival those of the academics, and sometimes exceed them.Research limitations/implications – Only considered US marketing journals.Practical implications – Despite some excellent citation evidence for practitioner‐academic work, additional cooperative efforts must be pursued to ensure the relevance of academic marketing research to practitioner needs.Originality/value – This is the only study to “objectively” address the impact of practitioner, practitioner‐academic alliance, and academic research in the academy.
The effect of leadership on values‐based management
Authors: Buchko Aaron A.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of organization leaders, particularly top managers, in building support for and developing behaviors that are consistent with values‐based management, by providing an empirical assessment of the effect of an organization's senior leadership on the values‐based management process.

Design/methodology/approach

As part of a program of organization development, a values‐based management approach was implemented in a large manufacturing organization. As part of the process, a system of measuring and evaluating values‐based behaviors was developed. The senior leaders of two groups of the organization were assessed in terms of their values behaviors, and their direct reports were likewise evaluated by the organization using a 360° process.

Findings

The results indicated that the leader's values behaviors were significantly related to the values behaviors of subordinates. Subordinates of leaders who strongly demonstrated values‐based management behaviors were more likely to exhibit the same behaviors.

Originality/value

The value of these findings lies in the suggestion that the role of organization leaders, and specifically the behaviors demonstrated by leaders, are important in determining the outcomes of values‐based management techniques. Subordinates may take cues from their leaders and model their values‐based behaviors after those of the organization's leadership.
The importance of management style in labour retention
Authors: Taplin Ian M. , Winterton Jonathan
Published: February 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role that management style plays in retaining workers in a high labour turnover industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study approach based upon extensive interviews with workers and managers derived from industry wide data set.

Findings

Positive actions by management promote worker attachment to leaders and the organization and are crucial in sustaining work values that diminish the likelihood of turnover.

Practical implications

Management style is a variable that is often overlooked in shaping worker attitudes and is crucial to understanding why workers stay in these firms.

Originality/value

Whereas most studies of turnover focus upon individual attributes, we examine the structural characteristics of the workplace that permit workers of different ages and skill sets to maximise their efficiency and earnings and the role played by management style in decisively shaping that structure.