bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectate Volumes Needed to Reach Specific Landmarks in Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Injections
Authors: Furman Michael B. , Mehta Ariz R. , Kim Ruby E. , Simon Jeremy I. , Patel Rikin , Lee Thomas S. , Reeves Ryan S.
Published: July 2010

Objectives

To identify the volumes of contrast material needed to reach specific landmarks during lumbar transforaminal epidural injections (L‐TFEIs).

Design

Prospective, nonrandomized, observational human study.

Setting

Academic/private pain management practice.

Patients

Sixty‐nine patients undergoing L‐TFEIs were investigated. Sixty patients were included in this study.

Interventions

L‐TFEIs were performed with the use of contrast‐enhanced fluoroscopic visualization.

Main Outcome Measurements

After the appropriate spinal needle position was confirmed, up to 5.0 mL of nonionic contrast material was slowly injected. Under biplanar fluoroscopic guidance, contrast volumes were recorded as flow reached specific anatomic landmarks: ipsilateral neural foramen, ipsilateral disks superior and inferior to the injected level, and across the midline of the spinous process.

Results

After 1.1 mL of contrast was injected, 100% of L‐TFEIs spread to the medial aspect of the superior pedicle (PED) of the corresponding level of injection. After 2.8 mL of contrast was injected, 95% of L‐TFEIs spread to the superior aspect of the superior intervertebral disk (IVD) of the corresponding level of injection. After 3.6 mL of contrast was injected, 95% of L‐TFEIs spread to the inferior aspect of the inferior IVD of the corresponding level of injection. After 3 mL of contrast was injected, 88% of L‐TFEIs spread to cover both the superior and inferior IVDs of the corresponding level of injection. After 4 mL of contrast was injected, 93% of L‐TFEIs spread to cover both the superior and inferior IVDs of the corresponding injection. After 4 ml of contrast was injected, 55% of L‐TFEIs spread beyond the midline of the spinous process, but barely.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates injectate volumes needed to reach specific anatomic landmarks in L‐TFEIs. A volume of 4.0 mL of injectate reaches both the superior aspect of the superior IVD and the inferior aspect of the inferior IVD 93% of the time.
The Effects of a Brief Relaxation Program on Symptom Distress and Heart Rate Variability in Cancer Patients
Authors: Asher Arash , Palmer J. Lynn , Yadav Rajesh R. , Yusuf Syed W. , Konzen Benedict , Bruera Eduardo , Guo Ying
Published: July 2010

Objectives

To determine whether a 15‐minute, one‐time guided relaxation program for cancer patients could improve symptom distress as measured by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS). In addition, we were interested in characterizing the changes of the autonomic nervous system, as demonstrated by heart rate variability (HRV) high‐frequency (HF) spectral analysis, before and after this relaxation program.

Design

Nonrandomized pilot study.

Setting

Comprehensive cancer center.

Methods

Twenty cancer patients underwent a 15‐minute relaxation program. The ESAS and a 5‐minute HRV recording were completed before and after the relaxation program.

Main Outcome Measures

The differences between the pre‐ and post‐summed ESAS score and HRV values were compared by a paired t‐test.

Results

The summed ESAS scores were significantly lower after the relaxation program (P < .01), with an average 31% decrease in total score. However, no differences were found in HRV HF power. There was no correlation between the change in HRV HF and change in symptom distress, as measured by ESAS.

Conclusions

A brief guided relaxation program can significantly improve symptoms as measured by ESAS. More research is required to understand the effects of relaxation on HF HRV power.
Hybridization and nonprofit organizations: The governance challenge
Authors: Smith Steven Rathgeb
Published: July 2010

Increasingly, public service delivery is characterized by hybrid organizational structures with mixed public, nonprofit, and for-profit characteristics. This study examines the governance and policy implications of hybrid organizations in public services with a specific focus on nonprofit organizations. These arrangements can range from very informal relationships among staff in different organizations to formal, binding contractual agreements among different organizations and nonprofit organizations with for-profit subsidiaries. Increasing hybridization among nonprofit organizations represents the restructuring of the state and the adaptive response to these organizations to an increasingly turbulent environment. Hybridization can present complex governance challenges for nonprofits; however, hybrid structures can be an asset for nonprofits in the competition for public and private resources and can promote broader community and political support.
Streptomyces samsunensis sp. nov., a member of the Streptomyces violaceusniger clade isolated from the rhizosphere of Robinia pseudoacacia
Authors: Sazak Anıl , Şahin Nevzat , Güven Kıymet , Işık Kamil , Goodfellow Michael
Published: July 2010

The taxonomic position of a Streptomyces isolate, strain M1463T, recovered from the rhizosphere of Robinia pseudoacacia was established in a polyphasic study. The organism had chemical and morphological markers that were consistent with its classification in the Streptomyces violaceusniger clade. This assignment was confirmed by 16S rRNA gene sequence data, which also showed that the strain formed a distinct subclade together with Streptomyces malaysiensis DSM 41697T. However, the two strains were readily distinguished on the basis of DNA relatedness and phenotypic data. The combined genotypic and phenotypic data show that strain M1463T should be recognized as a representative of a novel species in the Streptomyces violaceusniger clade, for which the name Streptomyces samsunensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of S. samsunensis is M1463T ( = DSM 42010T = NRRL B-24803T).
Candida albicans Vrp1 is required for polarized morphogenesis and interacts with Wal1 and Myo5
Authors: Borth Nicole , Walther Andrea , Reijnst Patrick , Jorde Sigyn , Schaub Yvonne , Wendland Jürgen
Published: July 2010

Recently, a link between endocytosis and hyphal morphogenesis has been identified inCandida albicansvia the Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome gene homologueWAL1. To get a more detailed mechanistic understanding of this link we have investigated a potentially conserved interaction between Wal1 and theC. albicansWASP-interacting protein (WIP) homologue encoded byVRP1. Deletion of both alleles ofVRP1results in strong hyphal growth defects under serum inducing conditions but filamentation can be observed on Spider medium. Mutantvrp1cells show a delay in endocytosis – measured as the uptake and delivery of the lipophilic dye FM4-64 into small endocytic vesicles – compared to the wild-type. Vacuolar morphology was found to be fragmented in a subset of cells and the cortical actin cytoskeleton was depolarized invrp1daughter cells. The morphology of thevrp1null mutant could be complemented by reintegration of the wild-typeVRP1gene at theBUD3locus. Using the yeast two-hybrid system we could demonstrate an interaction between the C-terminal part of Vrp1 and the N-terminal part of Wal1, which contains the WH1 domain. Furthermore, we found that Myo5 has several potential interaction sites on Vrp1. This suggests that a Wal1–Vrp1–Myo5 complex plays an important role in endocytosis and the polarized localization of the cortical actin cytoskeleton to promote polarized hyphal growth inC. albicans.
Inclusive working life and value conflict in Norway
Authors: Johanne Solheim Liv
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to offer an analysis of the conflicting values behind Norway's much celebrated inclusive working life (IWL) programme, which aims to reduce sickness absenteeism, to increase the average age of retirement, and to hire functionally challenged persons. This article, moreover, presents sorely needed qualitative data from a preliminary study on IWL that shows how state‐owned enterprises have struggled to cope with the conflicting goals.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study based on interviews with regional managers and representatives of the unions who had to adapt to IWL, and the results suggest possible explanations behind the disappointing numbers found by other quantitative studies on IWL.

Findings

Because of the decision to implement IWL, regional managers are caught in the middle of two different ideologies, namely, neo‐liberalism or new public management (NPM) and the welfare‐state ideology, and they find themselves making choices according to the former. This study on state enterprises at the local level has found that managers and union representatives appeared to support the intentions behind the programme, but they clearly prioritized productivity and efficiency over inclusiveness.

Research limitations/implications

As the results are from a preliminary qualitative study of IWL that only included state enterprises, there is a need for further research that also includes the private enterprises.

Practical implications

This study finds that IWL is ineffective because it cannot harmonize the NPM and the welfare‐state ideologies.

Originality/value

This article helps to remedy the lack of qualitative documentation on the progress of IWL. These results also question the prevailing optimism over the potential of IWL by pointing to the ideological tensions between welfare and efficiency.
Competitive priorities and strategic consensus in emerging economies: evidence from India
Authors: Kathuria Ravi , Porth Stephen J. , Kathuria N.N. , Kohli T.K.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the competitive priorities of manufacturers in India, and examine the level of agreement or strategic consensus between senior executives and manufacturing managers on manufacturing competitive priorities in light of the prevalent culture.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data collected from 156 respondents from 78 manufacturing units based on a national sample in India are used to test the hypotheses using the paired samples t‐tests and multivariate analysis of variance.

Findings

A relatively high emphasis by both levels of managers on quality, compared to the other three competitive priorities, is noteworthy and consistent with the global trends. The emphasis on delivery is a close second. Differences in competitive priorities exist across managerial levels in India despite the high power distance and low individualism.

Research limitations/implications

The effect of ownership as private or public company was examined and no significant differences found, but data could not be collected on the ownership structure such as wholly owned domestic firms, foreign subsidiaries, or joint ventures. and whether a firm is a supplier to a multinational company. It may also be noted that a majority of the manufacturing companies in this paper came from three industries – chemicals, fabricated metals, and electronic and electrical equipment – and, hence, the findings of the paper might have been unduly influenced by the prevalent practices in these industries.

Practical implications

The paper informs global managers and firms seeking to outsource to, or invest in, India that the Indian managers place significantly high emphasis on quality and delivery, but not as much on product variety or ability to make frequent changes to product design and production volume. The managers in India need to take note of prevailing differences in managerial priorities and efforts need to be made such that the priorities are aligned and manufacturing strategy may be unified and coordinated.

Originality/value

In the Indian context, this is the first study that deployed multiple respondents to understand the manufacturing competitive priorities, and also the first to examine strategic consensus in operations strategy.
Taming diversity: an exploratory study on the travel of a management fashion
Authors: Heres Leonie , Benschop Yvonne
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Originating from the USA in the early 1990s, diversity management has been “imported” to Europe to become a fashionable practice in many business organizations. The aim of this paper is to provide further insight into whether and how the diversity management discourse challenges and replaces existing local discourses on equality and diversity, and how diversity management is given content and meaning in a specific local context.

Design/methodology/approach

Statements on diversity, diversity management and equality on both the Dutch and the international websites of ten leading companies in the Netherlands are analyzed.

Findings

The analysis shows that translations of diversity management may in fact not actually replace existing local discourses, but rather leave the existing local discourse more or less intact and alter the original diversity management discourse to fit into this local discourse.

Originality/value

This paper offers some important lessons for management practice.
Restructuring liaison librarian teams at the University of Arizona Libraries, 2007‐2009
Authors: Andrade Ricardo , Zaghloul Raik
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze the restructuring process of the University of Arizona libraries. The paper focuses more specifically on the research support services (RSS) team, one of the librarian teams, that moved from a subject liaison model to a domain model focused on different work areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper details the three phases of restructuring: building the general frame of change by the restructuring team, staffing outline by the implementation team, and how the resulting team, the research support team, managed its assigned work.

Findings

The restructuring resulted in a few changes to the library as whole but the largest change was the creation of the RSS team and the move from a subject specialist model to a domain model. The RSS model has allowed the team to accomplish their work with fewer staff.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new approach of how a research university is responding to economic and technological challenges.
Symposium report: BOBCATSSS 2010
Authors: Robinson Sara P. , Westwood Catherine
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the BOBCATSSS 2010 conference held in Parma, Italy in January 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents an outline of the content of the conference proceedings including a description of the presentations, workshops and social events.

Findings

The theme focused on the role of libraries and other cultural institutions and the challenges they face in providing access for all. Participants explored the concept of “Bridging the digital divide” through presentations, workshops, and posters.

Originality/value

A brief conference report of value to library and information professionals and students of library and information science‐related disciplines with an interest in overcoming challenges presented in a digital environment.
The relationship between diversity training, organizational commitment, and career satisfaction
Authors: Yap Margaret , Holmes Mark Robert , Hannan Charity‐Ann , Cukier Wendy
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between employees' perceptions of diversity training (DT) existence and effectiveness with organizational commitment (OC), and career satisfaction (CS).

Design/methodology/approach

The analyses in this paper utilize survey data collected between 2006 and 2007 from over 11,000 managers, professionals, and executives working in nine large organizations in corporate Canada. The survey included questions about employees' perceptions of their work experiences and outcomes and their organizations' diversity practices. Comparisons of means as well as multivariate regression analyses were undertaken.

Findings

The paper shows that employees who perceived DT to be effective were significantly more committed to their organizations and more satisfied with their careers than employees who perceived DT to be ineffective or non‐existent.

Research limitations/implications

The paper examines the linkages between DT, OS, and CS based on survey responses from managers, professionals, and executives. Findings may therefore not be applicable to entry level employees.

Practical implications

DT, and in particular when viewed by employees to be effective, increases employees' OC and CS, which are associated with loyalty, lower turnover and higher employee engagement.

Originality/value

The paper found that employees' OC and CS are highest when they perceived DT to be effective. Factors associated with OC and CS are explored based on employees' perceptions of the availability and effectiveness of DT.
Magnetic microfibres modelling methods
Authors: Wiak Sławomir , Firych‐Nowacka Anna , Smółka Krzysztof
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe research into the problem of creating computer structural models of magnetic microfibres. The main goal of the research is to create the universal generator of computer structural models for whole bundles of magnetic microfibres.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the algorithm of magnetic microfibres computer modelling. It covers both finite element method (FEM) and reluctance network method. Because microfibres with ferromagnetic grains have very complicated 3D structure, the quickest possible method was chosen.

Findings

The results focus on the methodology presented in the paper which can be implemented in building 3D equivalent B/H curve of the microfibres set by use of field method – combining reluctance network method and FEM. Defining the proper magnetic B/H curves of magnetic fibres will enable the production of smart and resistant clothes.

Originality/value

To date there are only measurements characteristics of B/H curve of magnetic microfibres. This paper proposes an innovatory way of determining magnetic microfibres parameters. This universal computer model allows the evaluation of the limiting value of magnetization (magnetic permeability, etc.).
Non linear finite element‐circuit model of a hybrid stepping motor
Authors: Duckler Kenmoe Fankem Eric , Takorabet Noureddine , Meibody‐Tabar Farid , Michel Sargos François
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a coupled finite element (FE) – reluctance network model for a hybrid step motor.

Design/methodology/approach

The equivalent permeances of the air‐gap are determined by 2D nonlinear FE computations. The results of the 2D model are used in a 3D analytical model. A spectral decomposition and a nonlinear fitting of the amplitudes of the permeance harmonics are performed to account for both saturation and high order harmonic effects. The nonlinear resolution of the circuit equations is performed with an iterative process. The performances are determined by using the principle of virtual works.

Findings

The method is validated with a 2D FE computation and then applied to a 3D hybrid step motor.

Originality/value

The proposed method enables fast and efficient computations of the performances of hybrid stepping motor.
Modelling of impulse loading in high‐temperature superconductors
Authors: Golosnoy I.O. , Sykulski J.K.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to access performance of existing computational techniques to model strongly non‐linear field diffusion problems.

Design/methodology/approach

Multidimensional application of a finite volume front‐fixing method to various front‐type problems with moving boundaries and non‐linear material properties is discussed. Advantages and implementation problems of the technique are highlighted by comparing the front‐fixing method with computations using fixed grids. Particular attention is focused on conservation properties of the algorithm and accurate solutions close to the moving boundaries. The algorithm is tested using analytical solutions of diffusion problems with cylindrical symmetry with both spatial and temporal accuracy analysed.

Findings

Several advantages are identified in using a front‐fixing method for modelling of impulse phenomena in high‐temperature superconductors (HTS), namely high accuracy can be obtained with a small number of grid points, and standard numerical methods for convection problems with diffusion can be utilised. Approximately, first order of spatial accuracy is found for all methods (stationary or mobile grids) for 2D problems with impulse events. Nevertheless, errors resulting from a front‐fixing technique are much smaller in comparison with fixed grids. Fractional steps method is proved to be an effective algorithm for solving the equations obtained. A symmetrisation procedure has to be introduced to eliminate a directional bias for a standard asymmetric split in diffusion processes.

Originality/value

This paper for the first time compares in detail advantages and implementation complications of a front‐fixing method when applied to the front‐type field diffusion problems common to HTS. Particular attention is paid to accurate solutions in the region close to the moving front where rapid changes in material properties are responsible for large computational errors.
Sound optimization of a converter‐fed drive system using an acoustic camera in combination with modal analysis
Authors: Tischmacher Hans , Eichinger Benjamin
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Modern variable‐speed drive systems using frequency converters generate additional audible noise as a result of the voltages that are no longer sinusoidal. Using suitable measures, the purpose of this paper is to find an optimum for minimum noise radiation in the complete drive system.

Design/methodology/approach

The main areas to concentrate on to achieve an optimum are the source of excitation itself – the frequency converter, as well as the actual source of the noise, the motor. Optimization measures are drawn‐up using soundscaping with subsequent modal analysis of the actual state. The effectiveness of any changes made can be estimated using simulation techniques. This approach is confirmed by subsequently implementing the selected measures and verifying them by performing the appropriate measurements.

Findings

The paper takes care of the increasingly important field of converter‐fed drive systems and their special acoustical challenge. It shows a practical way to reduce audible noise combining measurements and simulations.

Originality/value

Combining the measurement of the acoustic camera with the simulation of modal shapes is a fast way for optimizing an inverter‐fed drive system.
Sanosil, a more effective agent for preventing the hospital‐acquired ventilator associated pneumonia
Authors: Yousefshahi Fardin , Reza Khajavi Mohammad , Anbarafshan Mohammad , Khashayar Patricia , Najafi Atabak
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of Sanosil and glutaraldehyde 2 percent in disinfecting ventilator connecting tubes in an intensive care unit (ICU) environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The 12‐week open‐labelled clinical trial was conducted in the surgical ICU of a teaching hospital from March to May 2005. In the first phase of the study, high level disinfection was performed using glutaraldehyde 2 percent, whereas Sanosil was used as the disinfectant agent of the second phase. Samples for microbial culture were obtained from the Y piece, the expiratory limb proximal to the ventilator and the humidifier in different stages; the results were then compared.

Findings

Positive culture was more frequently reported in Y pieces, humidifiers and expiratory end of ventilators. Comparing the two groups, there were more positive cultures in the glutaraldehyde group (p value=0.005); multiple organism growths, gram negative, gram positive and fungi were also more frequent in this group (p value=0.01; 0. 007; 0. 062; 0.144, respectively).

Originality/value

The paper shows that Sanosil is an effective agent in reducing the contamination risk in the tubes used in ICUs.
A novel sucrose porogen‐based solid freeform fabrication system for bone scaffold manufacturing
Authors: Lu Lin , Zhang Qingwei , Wootton David , Lelkes Peter I. , Zhou Jack
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Musculoskeletal conditions are a major health concern in the USA because of a large aging population and increased occurrence of sport‐related injuries. Bone tissue engineering may offer a less painful alternative to traditional bone grafts with lower risk of infection. The purpose of this paper is to present a novel porogen‐based fabrication system for tissue engineering scaffolds using sucrose (C12H22O11) as the porogen building material.

Design/methodology/approach

A new solid freeform fabrication system has been developed and tested, which uses pressurized extrusion to print highly biocompatible and water soluble sucrose bone scaffold porogens (or negtives). Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds are manufactured by injecting molten polymer into the porogens, and the porogens are subsequently dissolved with water. The resultant scaffolds demonstrate the defined porous structure designed into the sucrose porogen manufacturing computer‐aided design model.

Findings

To optimize the porogen manufacturing process, the viscosity of sucrose mixtures is measured. Design of experiments is used to plan and analyze the relationships between the porogen characteristics and the process parameters. Reservoir pressure and print head speed are identified as the dominant factors affecting sucrose flow rate and porogen strut diameter, respectively. The biocompatibility of the new system is assessed by in vitro cell culture testing. Endothelial hybridoma cells (EAhy 926) and osteoblasts (7F2) seeded on the fabricated PCL scaffolds adhered to the scaffold and proliferated over four to six days. Epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy images reveal cell spreading and multiple layers of cells on the scaffold surface. The results demonstrated the potential of the structured sucrose porogen‐based fabrication method in manufacturing bone tissue scaffolds.

Originality/value

This paper describes the first time use of biomaterials‐sucrose to make scaffold porogens and how an injection molded biopolymer scaffold can then be received.
The influence of prior experience and age on mature consumers' perceptions and intentions of internet apparel shopping
Authors: Kwon Wi‐Suk , Noh Mijeong
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate mature consumers' perceived risks and benefits and purchase intentions in the context of online apparel shopping and the role of age and past experience in their perceptions and intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A national sample of 293 US male and female mature consumers (born in or before 1964) participated in a mail survey. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses regarding relationships among mature consumers' age, prior experiences, perceived risks and benefits, and purchase intentions.

Findings

The study revealed that perceived benefits regarding product and price offerings and perceived financial risk were significant predictors of mature consumers' online apparel purchase intention. In addition, the level of past online shopping experience was a strong antecedent of the mature consumer's perceived risks and benefits of online shopping. Age and general internet experience showed limited influences on mature consumers' perceptions and purchase intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides numerous implications for future research with regard to the challenges mature consumers may experience in adopting the internet as a shopping medium.

Practical implications

Findings from the study suggest that online retailers targeting mature consumers need to be aware of limitations and difficulties that mature consumers may face and to develop their web sites and communication messages to meet the specific needs of these consumers.

Originality/value

The study provides valuable insight into the mature consumers' internet shopping phenomenon, addressing a gap in the literature. The use of a national sample allows for generalization of the findings.
E‐atmosphere, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses
Authors: Kim Hyejeong , Lennon Sharron J.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This research is designed to investigate the effects of the apparel online shopping environment on emotions and cognitive and behavioral responses based on Mehrabian and Russell's model, which utilizes the stimulus‐organism‐response (S‐O‐R) paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 230 female undergraduate students participated in an experiment after browsing a stimulus website. The effects of the use of a model, color swapping on clothing, and enlargement (2 × 2 × 2 between‐subjects factorial design) on emotions and the relationships among pleasure, arousal, perceived amount of information, perceived risk, and purchase intention were tested using SEM.

Findings

The results showed an effect of enlargement on pleasure (H1c), a positive relationship between pleasure and perceived amount of information (H2a), and negative relationships between perceived amount of information and product quality and online transaction risk (H3a) and consequential risk (H3b), and between product quality and online transaction risk and purchase intention (H4a). The post hoc test revealed the negative relationships between pleasure/arousal and product quality and online transaction risk, positive relationships between pleasure/arousal and purchase intention, and positive relationship between perceived amount of information and purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study used a sample of female undergraduate students at a Midwest university, which limits generalizability to other consumer groups. The experiment was conducted online and the different computer conditions might have influenced respondents' online shopping experiences.

Originality/value

The study enhances understanding of online shopping environment and relationships among the emotional (pleasure and arousal), cognitive, and behavioral response mechanisms.
Performance evaluation of ERP implementation in Indian SMEs
Authors: Kale P.T. , Banwait S.S. , Laroiya S.C.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find out whether and how Indian small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) are benefiting because of enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation, through survey‐based research. This will help other SMEs take appropriate decisions about ERP implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is exploratory in nature, a survey methodology is used for study and it is cross‐checked with the personal interviews of the key personnel in the SMEs and the ERP vendors. A structured questionnaire was developed to get the information.

Findings

The survey of 130 SMEs in one of the industrially advanced cities reveals that most of them have implemented ERP to integrate the existing information system and found ERP implementation mainly beneficial in reducing inventory, improving customer services and improving communications. Top management support, and user involvement and participation are found to be the major contributors of ERP success.

Research limitations/implications

The research is targeted on SMEs in one part of India and hence it has limitations in terms of scope. However, the results are quite encouraging with very good response from the SMEs, though the industry‐institute interactions are not so strong. Other SMEs, planning to implement ERP in the near future, will be highly benefited from the performance evaluation of ERP in Indian SMEs.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates how Indian SMEs have benefited from ERP implementation. The findings will encourage Indian SMEs to implement ERP when facing challenges of the competitive market.
Maximising compensation: organisational level and industry gender composition effects
Authors: Adams Susan M. , Gupta Atul , Leeth John D.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate differences in compensation related to gender concentrations among industries at different organisation levels of management to identify gender‐based patterns of compensation at the macro level not investigated in previous studies that simply suggest industry or occupational differences. Findings provide guidance for selection processes, career path management for maximising compensation and policy‐making.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from the Current Population Surveys and the Standard and Poor's ExecuComp database were used to examine differences in compensation of managers and top executives.

Findings

Findings suggest that men and women must seek different paths and endpoints to optimize compensation. Maximising compensation for women requires working as a minority and changing industries. Men, on the other hand, may work in male‐dominated industries at every level or may move to female‐dominated industries at the managerial and executive levels and still receive equitable pay.

Research limitations/implications

The paper was conducted on a USA sample so further research should examine data from other countries.

Practical implications

In practice, this paper suggests that men and women must seek different paths and endpoints to optimize compensation. Human resource managers should be aware of these potential biases and try to rectify them within their organisations through the use of appropriate selection and compensation practices. At the macro‐level, policy‐makers can identify patterns of inequity to address.

Originality/value

Gender‐related difference studies of compensation offer little understanding about how to maximise compensation during one's management career as it progresses through management levels and across industries.
Economic freedom and sovereign credit ratings and default risk
Authors: Roychoudhury Saurav , Lawson Robert A.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that economic policy impacts sovereign debt risk in addition to economic performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Regression analysis was employed to determine the factors that contribute to sovereign bond ratings and bond spreads for a sample of 93 countries from 2000 to 2006.

Findings

After controlling for common factors like per capita gross domestic production, growth, and political regime, the results suggest that a two unit (or a 2.4 standard deviation) drop in the economic freedom index represents approximately a 50 percent higher cost of borrowing for a country.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the empirical literature on sovereign credit risk by identifying factors found to be the most significant in determining sovereign credit ratings and bond spreads.
THE SHALES AND BRICK CLAYS OF GEORGIA*
Authors: Smith Richard W.
Published: July 2010

A résumé is given of the geology, general ceramic properties, and uses of the shales and alluvial clays of Georgia, based on a study by the Georgia Geological Survey. The conclusions were derived from seven months of field work and from ceramic tests on 115 samples from private properties and active plants.1
THE COMMERCIAL UNDERCLAYS OF INDIANA*
Authors: Whitlatch George I.
Published: July 2010

The commercial underclays of Indiana are used extensively in the manufacture of heavy clay products in that State; the use of native underclays for making pottery and refractories has been comparatively limited. Field and laboratory data relating to those underclays now being utilized by the clay plants of the State are summarized. The data, for the most part, are based upon field observations and laboratory tests made by the writer. The underclays are discussed with reference to their stratigraphical occurrences, physical characteristics in the outcrop, and physical properties as determined in the laboratory by chemical analyses and fire tests. The data selected for each underclay horizon are representative of the average quality of the clay used commercially from that horizon. Brief mention is made also of the qualities of underclays in horizons other than those being utilized a t the present time.
A SIMPLE DISPERSION TEST FOR CLAYS*
Authors: Wilson Hewitt , Page Geokce A.
Published: July 2010

A test method was devised to indicate the comparative degree or dispersion of dry Tests of seven clay by simple blunging and removal of particles finer than 325‐mesh.
SOME NOTES ON THE NATURE OF CLAY, II*
Authors: Norton F. H.
Published: July 2010

The drying shrinkage curves were accurately determined for a number of clays Some clays show a secondary shrinkage and Other finely divided The shrink and other finely divided substances. others do not. The latter are generally the less plastic ones. Other finely divided materials beside clay may show considerable plasticity, e.g., ferric oxide. age curves give an insight into the nature of the surface film on the clay particles.
REFINING OF PACIFIC NORTHWEST KAOLINS BY AIR FLOTATION*
Authors: Wilson Hewitt , Cunliffe Jack A.
Published: July 2010

Preliminary tests were made of various types of grinding and pneumatic systems to separate the kaolin, mica, and quartz components of kaolin rock in comparison with water‐washing tests. It was found best to remove the coarse quartz and mica as completely as possible in the grinding compartment and to use pneumatics for the separation of the finest particles. Pulverization of kaolin rock increased the quartz and mica content of the purified kaolin even with the best methods of pneumatic separation.
DUST ELIMINATION IN THE POTTERY INDUSTRY*
Authors: Schramm Edward
Published: July 2010

Dust counts were made in different parts of a pottery with and without natural and induced ventilation. Thc hoods installed at the benches of the finishers and setters and the remodeled stoveroom air‐circulating system are described and illustrated.
THE DIELECTRIC STRENGTH OF PORCELAIN: THE INFLUENCE OF POROSITY*
Authors: Monack A. J. , Smith R.K.
Published: July 2010

This work utilized the samples used by Monack, Shardlow, and Wamsley in previous experiments.1 Between cones 7 and 10, the dielectric strength was found to be inversely proportional to the per cent apparent porosity. Between cones 10 and 15 the dielectric strength increased gradually while the apparent porosity remained essentially zero. No relation existed between dielectric strength and total porosity (open and closed pores). Overfiring does not seem to decrease the dielectric strength unless a definite vesicular structure is developed.
RAPID FIRING OF SEMIPORCELAIN*
Authors: Rubson J. T.
Published: July 2010

Some of the factors limiting the firing cycle of semiporcelain ware arc listed. Satisfactory seven‐inch bisque, eight high, was obtained with a complete firing cycle of 15 1/2 hours. Satisfactory glost was obtained with a complete firing cycle of 8 1/2 hours.
THE USE OF AUXILIARY FLUXES IN DINNERWARE BODIES*
Authors: Loomis George A.
Published: July 2010

A plant and laboratory study was made of the use of frits as auxiliary fluxes in dinnerware bodies. The frits were addcd to a commercial earthenware body. Seven‐inch plates of thesc bodies were jiggered, fired, and glazed a t the pottery.

Some practical difficulties encountered were as follows: (1) Due to the progressive solubility of the frits, even when this solubility was slight and only 2 to 4% of the frit was used, the slip was deflocculated and the plasticity of the body was destroyed. This trouble apparently was overcome by using a slight excess of hydrochloric acid in the body slip. (2) The ware of the bodies containing frit warped more than the normal body, especially in the glost fire.

Results of tests of the slips, bodies, and ware are presented.
THE ACTION OF WASTE‐WOOD ASH ON REFRACTORIES*
Authors: Skinner Kenneth G. , Field Norman L.
Published: July 2010

A description is given of several industrial waste‐wood furnaces with auxiliary oil‐firing equipment to show the types of installations and the slagged areas. In the tests, wood ash from industrial furnaces was blown onto panels of various refractories which had been heated in an oil flame. Chemical analyses and properties of the brick tested, the waste‐wood ash, the slags from industrial furnaces, and the test furnace are given. All of the refractories suffered in this high lime‐alkali slag, but silicon carbide gave the best resistance. Thee tests indicated that the absorption of the fireclay and diaspore types of brick was more important in their resistance than the alumina‐silica ratio. Petrographic studies of the slag‐brick interface showed the presence of mullite in all of the fireclay, kaolin, and diaspore brick.
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF REFRACTORIES UNDER OPERATING CONDITIONS*
Authors: Heilman R. H. , Bradley R. S.
Published: July 2010

The thermal conductivity of six brands of refractories was measured under conditions somewhat similar to actual operating practice. The inside dimensions of the test furnace were approximately 6 by 8 by 10 feet, and the test panels were approximately 3 by 3 feet and 101/2 inches thick.

Conductivity curves, temperature gradients, and part of test log are given. The refractories tested were magnesite, silica, chrome, Mexko, Mizzou, and Kruzite brick.
CHIPS, FISH SCALES, AND SHINERS, IV
Authors: Zapffe C. A. , Yarne J. L.
Published: July 2010

The effusion of hydrogen from enameled steel to cause fractures in the enamel was investigated in an attempt to show that this gas may cause defects that range from plate‐like fractures, or “chips,” through the known types of fish scales to the most minute shiner. The difference in the appearance of these defects was found to depend principally on differences in (1) the physical properties of the enamel, (2) the metal‐enamel bond, and (3) the rate, quantity, and localization of the hydrogen effusion.

Reboiling is shown to be related to fish scaling and to the other fracture‐type defects because all are primarily hydrogen functions. The principal source of the critical quantities of hydrogen necessary to cause the defects is often found in the water of hydration in the dried slip, and the injection of hydrogen by that water during firing is demonstrated by experiment just as was shown for blister‐type defects (see this issue, pp. 180‐90).

The prevention of fracture‐type defects is discussed, and some novel effects of protective surface oxidation are illustrated.
REFRACTORY CERAMIC BASE COATS FOR METAL*
Authors: Plankenhorn W.J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract

Refractory ceramic base coatings were formulated and developed for application to ingot iron, low‐carbon steel, and alloy metals. Mill additions to increase the effectiveness of the coatings produced from various frit glasses were studied. Diaspore proved to be the most desirable of the materials considered. The formulation of special frit glasses was undertaken to further increase the refractoriness and heat‐resistant properties of ceramic coatings. The effects of changes in the base composition and the inclusion of various refractory materials was investigated. Tests for the evaluation of the coatings are listed with a summary of the results obtained. Metal preparation and procedures are described. Sandblasting is the recommended method of preparing metals for coating. Results of service tests are discussed. The important part that ceramics can play in aeronautics is pointed out.
Study of Moisture‐Condensation Patterns on Glass and Crystalline Surfaces
Authors: LEVENGOOD W. C.
Published: July 2010

A method was devised whereby moisture‐condensation patterns on glass and crystalline surfaces could be examined under the microscope and photographed. The characteristics of the condensation films were markedly influenced by the fracture patterns and by the structure of the underlying surface. The technique was applied in a detailed study of minute surface fracture patterns and Griffith flaws. Experiments were made showing the type of fracture patterns produced on glass by various mechanical means. Variations in the surface structure produced by polishing, etching, and other treatments were also studied by this method.
Preparation and Properties of Calcium Zirconate
Authors: NADLER M. R. , FITZSIMMONS E. S.
Published: July 2010

The preparation of CaZrO3 by solid‐state reactions at 1450° to 2000°C. is described. A very stable material was formed by the reaction of CaCO3 and ZrO2, in equimolar proportions, at a final temperature of 1850°C. Lattice constant values for this material agreed with data reported by previous investigators. The linear coefficient of thermal expansion for CaZrO8 over the temperature range 25° to 1300°C. was found to be 11.5 × 10−6 per °C. Specimens of CaZrO3 were compatible with ZrO2, MgO, Al2O3, and BeO but reacted with SiC and mullite.
Solid Solubility of Na2O in Mullite
Authors: SCHNEIDER HARTMUT
Published: July 2010

Incorporation of up to 0.4 wt% Na2O was found in the mullites of fused‐cast mullite brick. Sodium oxide incorporation probably requires very high temperatures and persists only when the material is quenched rapidly to room temperature; it may be stabilized by simultaneous entry ofZr4+ into the mullite structure.
Intermediate‐Stage Sintering of a Homogeneously Packed Compact
Authors: IKEGAMI TAKAYASU , MORIYOSHI YUSUKE
Published: July 2010

Several characteristic equations in intermediate sintering dependent on a grain‐growth mechanism were quantitatively estimated using the microstructural data of sintered compacts. The relations which were calculated with a computer based on many assumptions described well the changes of a pore‐size distribution, of an average radius of grains, and of a specific surface area of an easily sinterable alumina during the sintering. The reasonableness of these assumptions is discussed.
Sintering and Properties of Titanium Diboride Made from Powder Synthesized in a Plasma‐Arc Heater
Authors: BAUMGARTNER H.R. , STEIGER R. A.
Published: July 2010

The pressureless sintering to near theoretical density of high‐purity titanium diboride powder, produced in a plasma arc from halogen vapor reactants, is described. Physical and mechanical property measurements between 25° and 1400°C are reported for materials densified at T=1800° to 2275°C. Titanium diboride exhibits several unusual and interesting properties, which include high electronic conductivity, a large positive strength‐vs‐temperature coefficient, and an intrinsic resistance to high‐temperature slow crack growth (negative N) Property trends are explained in terms of microstructural development and residual grain‐boundary stresses.
Structure of Alkali‐Zinc Silicate Glasses by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Minser David G. , Walden Barbara , White William B.
Published: July 2010

Raman spectra were measured for a series of Na2O·xZnO·ySiO2 glasses where x=O to 2 and y = 1,2, or 3. The spectra exhibit bands characteristic of sheet‐like and chain‐like strucrural units. Frequency and intensity shifts with ZnO content suggest that Zn2+ is a simple network modifier over this composition range.
Deformation of Interparticle Necks by Diffusion‐Controlled Creep
Authors: Bouvard D. , McMeeking R. M.
Published: July 2010

The deformation of a neck between two spherical particles of the same size by coupled grain‐boundary and surface diffusion has been simulated numerically through the finite‐difference method. In the case of pure sintering where there is no applied stress, the results agree quite well with simple analytical models. When a force is applied, it is found that they do not deform as truncated spheres, even when surface diffusion is much faster than grain‐boundary diffusion. Expressions are given representing the rate of approach of the particles and the rate of growth of the neck as a function of the current neck radius and the applied stress.