bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of fibril taper on the function of collagen to reinforce extracellular matrix
Authors: Goh K.L , Meakin J.R , Aspden R.M , Hukins D.W.L
Published: August 2005

Collagen fibrils provide tensile reinforcement for extracellular matrix. In at least some tissues, the fibrils have a paraboloidal taper at their ends. The purpose of this paper is to determine the implications of this taper for the function of collagen fibrils. When a tissue is subjected to low mechanical forces, stress will be transferred to the fibrils elastically. This process was modelled using finite element analysis because there is no analytical theory for elastic stress transfer to a non-cylindrical fibril. When the tissue is subjected to higher mechanical forces, stress will be transferred plastically. This process was modelled analytically. For both elastic and plastic stress transfer, a paraboloidal taper leads to a more uniform distribution of axial tensile stress along the fibril than would be generated if it were cylindrical. The tapered fibril requires half the volume of collagen than a cylindrical fibril of the same length and the stress is shared more evenly along its length. It is also less likely to fracture than a cylindrical fibril of the same length in a tissue subjected to the same mechanical force.
Clear thinking on the “unity” of the information professions
Authors: Sturges Paul
Published: August 2005

Purpose

As part of a series to mark the 60th anniversary of the Journal of Documentation, the aim is to review a 1956 article by Barbara Kyle.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review and analysis.

Findings

The theme of Barbara Kyle's 1956 Journal of Documentation article “Privilege and public provision in the intellectual welfare state” retains its professional resonance in the 21st century. Her distinction between the mission of the library for the general public and that of the private sector library for a restricted clientele, draws attention to the broad educational and leisure mission of the former and the contribution to the commercial advantage of the organisation of the latter. The current professional focus on public rights to information, as expressed in freedom of information legislation, threatens to obscure the private sector's concern with the protection of intellectual property and the acquisition of business intelligence for the benefit of the organisation, but the distinct missions of library and information services in the two sector remain as significant as ever.

Originality/value

Provides a review of historical information still of value today.
E‐learning and digital library futures in New Zealand
Authors: Carnaby Penny
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This paper argues that in order to develop a seamless, accessible, learner‐centric next generation pedagogy that is scalable, sustainable, and will achieve a high level of systems and cultural interoperability, countries need a national Digital Strategy and an ICT vision for education, to bring this framework together.

Design/methodology/approach

A summary and description of national policy commitments, forward‐looking initiatives and practical outcomes in pursuit of an educationally effective national Digital Strategy for New Zealand.

Findings

New Zealand will make significant progress in achieving the aspirations of the next generation learner during the next 12 months. Libraries throughout the country are in a strong position to play a crucial role in this development.

Research limitations/implications

This paper concentrates on a single national context, but does put the reader in a position where they can draw conclusions about how this model is applicable to other environments.

Practical implications

The author argues that Libraries have a long history and deep understanding of standards‐led architectures which has achieved greater access to information and systems interoperability. The profession is in a good position to be a proactive partner in the development of next generation e‐learning experiences.

Originality/value

The paper gives clear insight into how national digital and educational strategies can be implemented on an effective, countrywide basis.
Debating definitions of information literacy: enough is enough!
Authors: Owusu‐Ansah Edward K.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To demonstrate existing definitional consensus on information literacy, and outline the main and unique areas of concern resulting from that consensus for libraries desiring to contribute to information literacy education.

Design/methodology/approach

Leading attempts at defining information literacy are examined to demonstrate their lack of substantive definitional differences, and to establish parameters for the library’s participation in information literacy education.

Findings

Examines the leading definitional contributions since the American Library Association’s 1989 seminal work on information literacy. Demonstrates the lack of substantive definitional differences between those and the ALA definition. Suggests librarians concentrate on the expectations deriving from such unanimity, and outlines those expectations.

Practical implications

Clarity of definitions provides more stable atmosphere for practical initiatives, while controversies over definitions distract from action. By pointing out the fundamental agreements between seemingly competing definitions of information literacy, this article underscores the need for librarians to fully concentrate on ways to achieve information literacy. By specifying the library’s unique place in that process and outlining the concrete things it can do, the article also provides practical guidance for more focused activity on the part of the library in information literacy education.

Originality/value

This article demonstrates a consistently overlooked definitional consensus on information literacy, and shows how the purported differences in definition actually represent delineations of steps and approaches that facilitate practical implementation. It also outlines the specific areas and activities that are legitimate responsibilities of the library in information literacy education, and notes areas outside the library’s reach.
Implementing the office total productive maintenance (“office TPM”) program: a library case study
Authors: Kanta Patra Nihar , Tripathy Jayanta Kumar , Choudhary B. K.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This paper discusses the implementation of office TPM in Indian Institute for Production Management (iiPM) library situated at Kanshbahal, Orissa, India. It describes very briefly the reasons for and benefits of implementing office TPM and explains the policies, objectives, roadmap and methodology used at the iiPM Library. It also elaborates the Japanese terms, which are known as 5S.

Design/methodology/approach

An exposition of the principles of office TPM and a brief case study account of their application.

Findings

The goal of a TPM program is to increase production and improve employees’ moral and job satisfaction. This case study did demonstrate these benefits, but there are training issues that need to be addressed for such success to be achieved, and similarly a full commitment of senior management to the program is also essential.

Practical implications

This paper offers advice to assist practitioners in the development of a successful office TPM program.

Originality/value

The application of a broad management tool specifically to the library context is original and valuable.
Reference librarians and the success of institutional repositories
Authors: Bell Suzanne , Fried Foster Nancy , Gibbons Susan
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the purpose, methods, and selected results of a study of faculty work practices, especially as they bear on the creation, location, and use of grey literature and the design and use of institutional repositories.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a work‐practice study of faculty members and researchers at the University of Rochester. The methodology used videotaped interviews to record and analyze how participants accomplish such tasks as using web‐based research and writing tools, organizing books and papers, and staying current.

Findings

Reviews six key research findings related to the understandings and attitudes faculty members hold regarding institutional repositories and the role of librarians in developing institutional repository collections. Explains why librarians have found it difficult to attract faculty participation from the perspective of user needs and work practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on field research with a small number of participants in six departments across the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Access to faculty participants was limited.

Practical implications

Recommends new strategies for institutional repository design, recruitment of content, and outreach by librarians based on the six key research findings. Proposes an expanded role for librarians as liaisons to faculty who wish to share their work using the library's repository system.

Originality/value

The paper presents original research that addresses a current problem in the area of institutional repositories: why faculty members have not taken full advantage of new technologies that help them share their work. It lists the practical steps that librarians can take to improve faculty participation in repository projects and to increase access to grey literature for all scholars.
The evolving impact of institutional repositories on reference librarians
Authors: Buehler Marianne A. , Boateng Adwoa
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The paper's purpose is to share the insights that the staff of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Libraries (Wallace Library, RIT Archives, and the Cary Collection) gained into the role of reference librarians in establishing and operating an institutional repository (IR).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper conducts a literature review on a range of published (1999‐2005) works to research the background of IRs and to incorporate it with the authors' own experiences.

Findings

The research findings, involving implementing IRs and specifically the effect on the role of the reference librarian in academic libraries, were found to be not as extensive as expected.

Originality/value

This paper is intended for those who are involved in developing and promoting IRs. The outcome of the paper is to stimulate thought and to contribute to the dialog on the topic of how IRs impact reference librarian roles and careers.
Real‐time quality control of surgical material packaging by artificial vision
Authors: López Antonio , Valveny Ernest , José Villanueva Juan
Published: August 2005

Purpose

In the last years, artificial vision systems have widely spread among quality control processes in many industries. In this paper we present an artificial vision system that automatically inspects sachets of surgical material in real‐time. These sachets are difficult to inspect by an artificial vision system due to high variability in their visual aspect and the material they are made of (aluminium and plastic) which can provoke a lot of reflections and shadows.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to variability of sachets and reflections in aluminium and plastic, the design of a good illumination system is very important for the success of the system. For that reason, we have used two sources of illumination, a dark field illumination and a diffuse frontal one, to avoid reflections and enhance important visual features. Moreover, the output of the system is not only the classification of the sachets as correct or defective, but it also identifies the sachet defect among the fifteen possible ones, a useful feature for just in time production. The proposed system is based on a PC modular and scalable architecture.

Findings

The system is currently working in actual production fulfilling the problem requirements with respect to false positive and false negative, in spite of the high variability of the product.

Originality/value

The system proposes two different kind of illumination systems to inspect difficult materials, such as plastic and aluminium, achieving good results. The proposed architecture of the system is modular and scalable and allows to increase computational power for visual tasks.
3D CAD model generation of mechanical parts using coded‐pattern projection and laser triangulation systems
Authors: Page David , Koschan Andreas , Voisin Sophie , Ali Ngozi , Abidi Mongi
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Investigate the use of two imaging‐based methods – coded pattern projection and laser‐based triangulation – to generate 3D models as input to a rapid prototyping pipeline.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses structured lighting technologies as suitable imaging‐based methods. Two approaches, coded‐pattern projection and laser‐based triangulation, are specifically identified and discussed in detail. Two commercial systems are used to generate experimental results. These systems include the Genex Technologies 3D FaceCam and the Integrated Vision Products Ranger System.

Findings

Presents 3D reconstructions of objects from each of the commercial systems.

Research limitations/implications

Provides background in imaging‐based methods for 3D data collection and model generation. A practical limitation is that imaging‐based systems do not currently meet accuracy requirements, but continued improvements in imaging systems will minimize this limitation.

Practical implications

Imaging‐based approaches to 3D model generation offer potential to increase scanning time and reduce scanning complexity.

Originality/value

Introduces imaging‐based concepts to the rapid prototyping pipeline.
Hindered growth: the ideology and implications of population assistance
Authors: Sophia Aguirre Maria , Hadley Cecilia A.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the role of the United Nations in the formulation and implementation of the current understanding of “population assistance” and examine some of the arguments for “population assistance” in the form of reproductive health care.

Design/methodology/approach

It presents the data for global population assistance and briefly compares these figures with data for other developmental sectors, recommending certain policy changes if real development is to be achieved.

Findings

During the last decade increasingly large amounts of money have been spent on limiting population growth of underdeveloped countries. Population control is seen as the corner‐stone of development and population activities. Thus, population control has become “population assistance,” and birth control has become “reproductive health services.” Population control is pursued at the expense of women's rights and to the detriment of real economic growth and social improvement.

Originality/value

For more than two decades, John Conway O'Brien has written on the importance of ethics for economic growth. In a recent article, he concluded that “although the illuminated may have been activated by the most altruistic of motives, their search for the good society was doomed from the start.” This paper attests the validity of his remarks.
Movement of powder bed material during the selective laser sintering of bisphenol‐A polycarbonate
Authors: Fan K.M. , Cheung W.L. , Gibson I.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a study of the movement of the powder bed material during selective laser sintering (SLS) of bisphenol‐A polycarbonate (PC) powder and its effect on the morphology of the sintered specimen.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sintering experiments, i.e. single‐spot laser sintering and raster‐scan laser sintering, were carried out and the material movement mechanisms were investigated in situ and subsequently by scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

During the raster‐scan laser sintering process, the movement of the powder was found to be primarily perpendicular to the scanning direction. When sintering at a high laser power, it significantly affected the surface morphology of the sintered specimens and parallel surface bands occurred along the scanning direction.

Research limitations/implications

Experiments were carried out on a modified laser engraving machine rather than a commercial SLS machine.

Practical implications

A schematic model of the material movement mechanism for each of the sintering strategies is presented.

Originality/value

The results further the understanding of the sintering behaviour of the powder bed.
New developments in fused deposition modeling of ceramics
Authors: Bellini Anna , Shor Lauren , Guceri Selcuk I.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To shift from rapid prototyping (RP) to agile fabrication by broadening the material selection, e.g. using ceramics, hence improving the properties (e.g. mechanical properties) of fused deposition modeling (FDM) products.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the development of a novel extrusion system, based on the FDM technology. The new set‐up, consisting of a mini‐extruder mounted on a high‐precision positioning system, is fed with bulk material in granulated form, instead that with the more common filament.

Findings

Previous research showed that the applications of new materials with specific characteristics in a commercial FDM system are limited by the use of intermediate precursors, i.e. a filament. The new design described in this paper overcomes the problem thanks to the new feeding system.

Research limitations/implications

The work presented in this paper is only the starting point for further development. The new system design was tested and encouraging improvements of the final product were achieved. However, several parameters, e.g. size of the feeding granules, still need to be optimized.

Practical implications

This configuration opens up opportunities for the use of wider range of materials, making the FDM to become a viable alternative manufacturing process for specialty products.

Originality/value

The mini‐extruder deposition system developed in this study exploits the advantages of the RP technologies: ability to shorten the product design and development time; suitability for automation; and ability to build many geometrically complex shapes. Hence, applying the described technology, it will be possible to manufacture customer‐driven product with important cost and time (from design to final product) savings.
Factors affecting effective communication between building clients and maintenance contractors
Authors: Choon Hua Goh , Sher Willy , Sui Pheng Low
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Studies on communication in the construction industry have generally concentrated on the briefing process and the construction process. However, studies on communication problems experienced by building clients' and maintenance contractors' representatives in the field of facilities management are less common. Thus, there is a need for studies of effective communication in facilities management, particularly between building clients' and maintenance contractors' representatives as these provide a valuable contribution to the area. Aims to fultil this need.

Design/methodology/approach

A maintenance contracting organization and four of its clients were selected for this research. A total of 44 project participants from the building clients and a maintenance contractor were interviewed in Singapore.

Findings

The findings suggested that, for effective communication, project participants have to be continuously proactive, even though communication may initially be ineffective. Reactive responses will result in ineffective communication at a later stage, even though communication may initially be effective.

Research limitations/implications

The study identified two additional areas for further research that are mainly related to facilities management. These are modes of communication and communication distance between building users and craftsmen.

Practical implications

The research documented in this paper investigates the factors affecting effective communication between building clients and maintenance contractors. A better understanding of these factors would help to reduce miscommunication and enhance productivity and working relationships.

Originality/value

The study showed that advanced information communication technology helped to overcome some of the communication barriers between the stakeholders in different stages of the lifecycle of a building. However, with building maintenance, proactive responses were encouraged to improve communication between facilities managers and other stakeholders, such as end users.
Communication problems in professional sports: the case of Greece
Authors: Athanasios Laios
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to explore the communication barriers among coaches and players in professional sports, define the basic communication principles, and suggest methods of improving the communication process.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample included 24 professional coaches from four different professional team sports in Greece. All subjects were male. The research instrument was developed from a relevant review of literature that focused on main problems in communication inside small groups. There was one set – lists of five variables regarding the problems in communication (limited time, language, etc.). Coaches were asked to indicate the main communication problem.

Findings

The results of this research showed that the most important communication problems between coaches and players in professional sports are: the external factors, the limited time, the language, the ability of perception and the negative attitude. From the above‐mentioned communicational problems, the coaches considered the external factors (41.67 per cent) as the most important, especially when their teams are playing away. The factor of negative attitude was considered as a main problem only by one coach (4.16 per cent).

Practical implications

Communication is one of the most important functions of management. Coaches of amateur and professional teams should know how to communicate successfully with players in order to maximize individual and team performance. That is why it is important for the coaches to know how to overcome the problems that occur during the communication process with the players.

Originality/value

Even most of the coaches are realizing the importance of effective communication; this research points out the main communication problems between coaches and players and suggests methods of improving the communication process.
Effects of MOSFET mismatch on the performance of single supply low voltage operational amplifiers
Authors: Ramakrishnan Radhalakshmi , Chaudhry Maqsood A.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

In this paper, we study the effect on the performance of a single supply low voltage operational amplifier due to such a mismatch.

Design/methodology/approach

We start with a given set of specifications and design a MOSFET based operational amplifier meeting those specifications. We then compute various parameters of the operational amplifier using PSPICE to verify that the amplifier meets the specifications. We create mismatch in three characteristics of differential pair MOSFETs: zero biased threshold voltage (Vth0), channel length (L) and process transconductance parameter (K). The effect of the mismatch on two performance parameters: (a) differential mode gain and (b) output DC voltage is then studied.

Findings

The effects of mismatch in MOSFET characteristics on the performance of single supply low voltage operational amplifiers are studied. Circuit designers can use the results to design operational amplifiers and other analog circuits to minimize the effects of such a mismatch on the performance of their circuits. In some cases, such a mismatch may even be desirable to obtain a desired performance from the circuit.

Practical implications

Circuit designers can use the results to design operational amplifiers and other analog circuits to minimize the effects of such a mismatch on the performance of their circuits.

Originality/value

Effect of mismatch of the transistor characteristics on the performance of circuits rarely reported in literature. This study is presented to aid circuit designers in designing circuits with enhanced performance.
Lending a helping hand
Authors: Hetty van Emmerik I.J. , Jawahar I.M.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate if gender and altruism evidence similar relationships with the different types of helping behaviors (e.g. organizational citizenship behaviors, OCBs; volunteering, vol; and helping kin, HK).

Design/methodology/approach

Data from websurveys of 178 professional employees are analyzed using Zellner's seemingly unrelated regression (SURE).

Findings

Results indicate women engage in HK to a greater extent than men, however this difference between men and women in helping behaviors disappears when the other variables are entered in the model. Gender and altruism interacted to influence OCBs, such that the relationship was stronger for women than for men.

Practical implications

An important implication of these results is that by knowing the motives that are most important to people, organizations may tailor their appeals to potential volunteers. Targeting potential volunteers is most effective when it matches people's reasons for volunteering.

Originality/value

The unique contribution of this study is that it simultaneously examined the relationship between altruism and the three types of helping behavior in a single study.
E‐learning: organizational requirements for successful feedback learning
Authors: Cegarra‐Navarro Juan G. , Sabater‐Sánchez Ramón
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Feedback learning transforms social knowledge into individual knowledge. In this process, tension arises because the current knowledge impedes the assimilation of new learning. Therefore, the feedback requires what Schumpeter refers to as “creative destruction”: discarding, or at least setting aside, the institutional order to enact variations that allow intuitive insights and actions to surface and be pursued. This paper examines the relative importance and significance of “technological systems” on feedback and the effects on the creation of relational capital.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the literature is reviewed to identify relevant measures and present a structural equation model, which is validated through an empirical investigation of 151 SMEs in the Spanish technological and information systems sector.

Findings

The results indicate that “the creative destruction” depends on the technology system of the company. Furthermore, if the creative destruction is a prior step in the feedback process, then the feedback process is influenced more by the creative destruction.

Practical implications

The results indicate that despite the majority of companies having connections to the internet, managers do not know the potential business benefits of technology systems for their clients, individuals and teams, and ignore the problem of human integration.

Originality/value

The findings are significant, since they introduce the traditional focus of a technology system at the feedback learning process.
Valuing the adult learner in e‐learning: part one – a conceptual model for corporate settings
Authors: Waight Consuelo L. , Stewart Barbara L.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To illustrate how the interdependence among four championing factors, five antecedents, and four moderators affect companies' efforts in valuing the adult learner in e‐learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted to identify the championing factors, antecedents, and moderators that can assist teams in designing e‐learning that values the adult learner. A conceptual model was designed based on the identified factors. The paper provides a description of each factor and provides insight on how the championing factors, antecedents, and moderators are interdependent in valuing the adult learner.

Findings

Engagement, learning, and transfer are major outcomes that can be achieved via e‐learning if desirable championing factors, antecedents, and moderators are adhered. Championing factors include leadership, learning culture, technology infrastructure, and finance. Influencing antecedents include needs assessment, learning analysis, work setting analysis, work analysis, content analysis, and task analysis. Moderators include return on investment, learning theory application, technology, and creativity.

Practical implications

The antecedents, moderators, and outcomes discussed reflect a conceptual model that can be used to guide e‐learning teams in their attempts to value adult learners in their e‐learning designs.

Originality/value

While educational theorists and practitioners have provided a body of literature related to valuing adults in school settings, little investigation has been done in corporate contexts. This conceptual model is important to e‐learning teams within corporate settings as it provides an opportunity for critical reflection on how the adult learner can be valued in their e‐learning efforts.
Affordability and performance in the industrial property market
Authors: Tsolacos Sotiris , McGough Tony , Thompson Bob
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The aim of the present study is to assess the significance of cash flow and profitability survey data in the modelling and forecasting of industrial rents. These data, taken from the British Chambers of Commerce regional surveys of the manufacturing sector, are used as a partial proxy for the affordability of industrial space occupiers. In the absence of direct profitability measures existing studies approximate this information indirectly through output and to some extent employment variables.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross‐section time‐series framework is deployed to model regional industrial rents using a set of output and employment variables. The empirical model is subsequently augmented with the inclusion of the cash flow and profitability measures.

Findings

Consistent with the findings of existing studies, changes in output are a significant influence on the variation of real industrial rents. Supportive evidence for turnover and profitability is found in four regions. In these regions cash flow variables contain additional information and improve the forecast performance of the base model. The empirical findings also extend to obtaining estimates after the BCC survey data are normalised with respect to the overall growth and the input costs manufacturers face in each of the regions.

Originality/value

The present study extends existing work on industrial rents by introducing more direct turnover and profitability series. Greater use of such series in property performance forecasting over short‐term horizons has the potential of resulting in smaller errors.
Pan‐European industrial property
Authors: Thompson Bob
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Aims to highlights the changes ongoing in the distribution and logistics property sector across Europe and to show that wide differences remain between the sophisticated warehouse properties available in mature property markets and those available in traditional parochial markets found prevalently across the continent and especially in central and eastern Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The briefing is based on empirical and commercial research in all the national industrial property markets within the EU. It addresses changes in the drivers affecting logistics property and the industry responses to them. The changes include outsourcing; a desire for more flexible, responsive supply chains; globalisation of manufacturing; legislative change; and growing IT capability. Industry responses include the development of complex, highly specified warehousing; increased demand for sophisticated telecommunications; and optimization of location.

Findings

Sub‐optimal locations and poor specification have a direct impact on the cost of the operations using them. As a consequence logistics providers gravitate to newer, more highly specified buildings in locations optimised for their use. In an environment where, traditionally, distribution has a national focus, optimising locations for pan‐European distribution will inevitably render some locations sub‐optimal.

Originality/value

As Europe moves towards a genuine single market, traditional, nationally‐based distribution chains become ever less efficient in the delivery of goods. Concurrently, the complexity and configuration of the warehouse product are changing to accommodate more efficient identification, storage and retrieval technologies along with the need to service new types of market.
Pitfalls in implementing a strategic early warning system
Authors: Oliver Schwarz Jan
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the reasons why the concept of a “strategic early warning system” (SEWS) has not been widely introduced and why it fails to be implemented successfully in German corporations. The aim of such systems is to detect changes in an organizational environment ahead of time by scanning the environment for “weak signals”, which come in the form of trends.

Design/methodology/approach

The questions that arise, particularly because the concept of SEWS is not entirely new, are: What are the pitfalls in implementing these systems, why do they occur, and how can they be overcome? To answer these questions, a single case study was conducted.

Findings

The study suggests that the failure of SEWS is due mainly to a lack of participation of potential future users in the implementation phase, a lack of joint understanding of the nature of trends, differing and unrevealed requirements of trends by various interested parties, a broad misconception of the “weak signals” concept and trends, an excessively heavy reliance on alleged “hard data”, a lack of interaction among users, and finally a “missing link” to the strategic functions in an organization.

Research limitations/implications

The results of the study are limited due to the fact that they are derived from a single case study.

Originality/value

The identification of pitfalls contributes to the research on implementing SEWS and this can also be linked to “strategic issue management” and the foresight process.
What should be the role of scientists in wars to come?
Authors: Richardson Jacques
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The paper seeks to explore the relationship between the state and scientists, specifically regarding the ethical and moral issues of research and development of weapons and military technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a methodology of experiential reasoning, the author provides numerous examples of the quandary in which modern research finds itself and asks “What choice is the scientist or engineer to make?”

Findings

The author's perspective on the past and present symbiosis between science and the military shows, however, the future complexity and subtlety of this relationship. It is one that could have a direct bearing on the future of the human race.

Originality/value

For three generations the spectre of nuclear war has been a received idea of such awesome dimensions as to occlude other, perhaps more imminent, menaces. The paper highlights those threats and provides a positive guide for policy makers.
Packing and unpacking knowledge
Authors: Mouritsen Jan , Koleva Gergana
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how a patent is an intangible asset and how it creates value.

Design/methodology/approach

Through analysis of a set of cases, the paper analyses how a patent becomes related to a series of other elements. This approach investigates the details of how a patent becomes useful. Theoretically, the paper suggests that a patent only creates value from being entangled in a web of resources in action, contrasting this with patents on hold where they are described as entities but not as resources.

Findings

The paper shows that patens a valuable not by themselves (on hold) but by being linked to a series of other resources and purposes (in actions). To understand the value of the patent is to understand its relationships to other mechanism in production, marketing and finance.

Research limitations/implications

The paper sets out an approach to study the value of patents which looks at the network around the patent. This is a limitation inasmuch as it is difficult to generalise the particular findings, but as a prospective research strategy, its strength is that is allows insight into the complexities of making patents valuable. This can also add to statistical work on the contingencies for patents' value.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that a strategy for patenting must pay attention to the different kinds of resources that make it useful. Often it is necessary to look far beyond the patent office to gain this knowledge. The management agenda is clear: the patent has to be entangled, but this also raises questions, because since the patent is an option, some of its value derives from exploring its possibilities. This however, blocks for its exploitation and thus causes opportunity costs. From a management point of view, it is not always clear that a patent should be used for its maximum potentiality, because this would disrupt the network is it part of and make it a very expensive resource to mobilise towards innovation

Originality/value

Typically, research on patents has taken the route via statistical and economic analysis. Our paper adds by showing the dynamics of managerial uses of patents and it shows that the structural conditioning of use of patents can fruitfully be supplemented by process and network approaches to their use.
Valuation of intellectual property
Authors: Chang Jow‐Ran , Hung Mao‐Wei , Tsai Feng‐Tse
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a new approach to evaluate intellectual property (IP) and uses a cautious view of how volatility impacts the economic value of IPs.

Design/methodology/approach

Real option is a useful tool for valuing investments under uncertainty and if it is applied to the valuation of IP with some modifications, it is also widely accepted. However, it is still debatable whether there is a constant rate‐of‐return. This paper incorporates a sensitivity variable to account for the volatility of the expected rate of return. Thus, rate‐of‐return can be a constant or increase with volatility.

Findings

First, it was found in the simple model that Vega may be negative when the option is deep in the money. Second, in the general model, the option can be seen as a sequence of options and under the constant rate‐of‐return shortfall setting, it resembles traditional financial options with positive Vega.

Originality/value

The scenario set‐up allows the authors to explain why uncertainties of future cash flows drive firms to invest now instead of later.
Intellectual capital performance of commercial banks in Malaysia
Authors: Chen Goh Pek
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This paper measured the intellectual capital performance of commercial banks in Malaysia for the period 2001 to 2003, using efficiency coefficient called VAIC™ developed by Ante Pulic.

Design/methodology/approach

Data required to calculate human capital, structural capital and capital employed efficiencies were obtained from annual reports.

Findings

As a whole, all banks have relatively higher human capital efficiency than structural and capital efficiencies. Domestic banks were generally less efficient compared to foreign banks. Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank and Southern Bank were the top three efficient domestic banks based on VAICTM assessment, while Scotia Bank is the most efficient foreign bank. Public Bank and EON Bank have consistently showed improvement in efficiency in the three years. There were significant differences between rankings of bank according to efficiency and traditional accounting measures. In view of the findings that seven out of ten domestic banks did not show improvement in efficiency following the consolidation exercise requires an urgent attention and remedial actions.

Research limitations/implications

This study failed to study all foreign banks operating in Malaysia. Future study should therefore further improve on the aspect of coverage.

Practical implications

The findings allowed banks to benchmark themselves based on the level of efficiency rankings, to establish priorities and develop strategic plans, which will in turn enhance their future performance. The findings also could help stakeholders and investors assess the value creating potential of banks; and policy makers to formulate and implement policies for establishment of a resilient banking sector.

Originality/value

This study is the first study on Malaysian banks' intellectual capital performance.
Bridging the gap between disclosure and use of intellectual capital information
Authors: García‐Meca Emma
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to examine the information regarding intellectual capital disclosed to financial analysts and to study if this data is finally considered in their decision‐making process.

Design/methodology/approach

The database consists of 257 reports of presentations held by Spanish companies and 217 analyst reports issued during 2000 and 2001. The paper shows that information related to intellectual capital is widely reported to financial analysts and that they use it in their decision making process.

Findings

The findings show that some of the items most frequently disclosed in the meetings and considered in valuation tasks are related to coherence and credibility of strategy, alliances, or leadership. Nevertheless, the comparison shows that the disclosure on intangibles is higher than the level of this information included in the analyst reports. This paper contributes to three streams of literature. The first is the literature on intangible assets, to which we contribute by providing evidence of its disclosure through direct contacts. The second is the literature on analyst valuation, to which we contribute by increasing understanding of the role of intellectual capital in the decision‐making process of financial analysts. Finally, by comparing the results, we test the differences in the focus on intangibles between the main parties involved in the information flow: the discloser and the user of the information.

Originality/value

The analysis of non‐financial information currently reported in private channels and used by financial analysis may be of interest to policymakers or regulators in the setting of mandatory disclosure requirements regarding intangibles
IC statement vs environmental and social reports
Authors: Cordazzo Michela
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To verify if the intellectual capital (IC) statement has some points of contact with environmental and social reports, or whether it can be considered as a brand‐new reporting model, which is completely detached and independent by the other two.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical analysis of environmental and social reports in Italy, and in particular an analysis whether some elements of IC statement are present in the environmental and social reports.

Findings

A high level of dispersion in the information composing the environmental and social reports; a significant overlapping of data between these two sets of documents; and a quite relevant set of information in common between the environmental and social reports and the IC statement.

Research limitations/implications

The environmental and social reports analysed could be not an exhaustive list, because Italian companies produce such reports on a voluntary basis and for internal purposes.

Practical implications

The lack of uniformity in and between environmental and social reports, and the correspondence between many elements of those documents and the IC statement information seem to suggest that the environmental and social reports could probably serve as a support for the development of IC statement in the Italian context in the near future.

Originality/value

Looks at the growing awareness of the multi‐dimensional nature of firm performance and the inadequacy of traditional accounting systems to account for issues posed by economic and technological environments.
Shaping ability of two rotary instruments in simulated canals: stainless steel ENDOflash and nickel‐titanium HERO Shaper
Authors: Perez F. , Schoumacher M. , Peli J. F.
Published: August 2005

Aim  To compare the shaping ability of two rotary instruments in simulated curved canals: stainless steel ENDOflash Files (KaVo, Biberach, Germany) and the recently introduced nickel‐titanium HERO Shaper instruments (Micro‐Mega, Besançon, France).

Methodology  Simulated root canals with 35° curves in resin blocks were prepared to size 30, .04 taper (HERO Shaper) using a crowndown technique or size 30, .02 taper (ENDOflash) using a rotary motion and a rotation speed of 400 or 250 rpm respectively. In both groups, irrigation was performed with 1 mL distilled water after each instrument size and Glyde (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) were used. Canals (n = 17 per group) were scanned before, during and after preparation. The assessment of preparation shape was carried out with a computer image analysis program. Material removal was measured at seven points beginning 1 mm from the end‐point of the canal. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon's test and Fisher's exact test (P < 0.05).

Results  No instrument fractures, apical blockage or loss of working length(WL) occurred. More zips (10 vs. 4) and more strippings (17 vs. 0) were created with ENDOflash compared with the HERO Shaper. There were significant differences in terms of the amount of resin removed on the inner wall of the curvature obtained with the two instruments (P < 0.0001). On average, HERO Shaper instruments removed material more evenly on the outer and inner wall of the curvature. Considering the different points of measurement, there were significant differences between the two systems both on the inner and outer walls at WL‐1, 2, 5 and 6 mm (P < 0.05). The HERO Shaper had a more centred enlargement compared with the ENDOflash.

Conclusions  Stainless steel rotary ENDOflash instruments did not perform as well as HERO Shaper instruments and created an increased risk of root canal transportation. Nickel‐titanium rotary HERO Shaper instruments maintained the original curvature significantly better.