bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formal control of the Japanese multinational companies to their subsidiaries in the UK
Authors: Kranias Dimitrios S.
Published: April 2007

This paper deals with the patterns of relationship that develop among the parent companies in Japan and their overseas subsidiaries. It attempts to offer a totally new view by constructing a three‐fold model to examine the existing relationship on an organizational, strategic and informational level. The model is linked and seen under the light of the means of formal control applied. Formal control has always taken a second role to the research of Japanese management accounting techniques. This is even more obvious when we investigate the issue of formal control. Culture usually becomes the center of attention when it comes to Japanese management. This research attempts to give a careful look to this usually underrated and overlooked issue. Thus, based on the multidimensional model constructed the formal means of control applied are examined.
Product costing continuum for managerial decisions
Authors: Reinstein Alan , Bayou Mohammed E.
Published: April 2007

Develops a continuum of product costing systems (PCSs) and demonstrates its application to making managerial decisions. Explains the relevance of this structure to managerial issues including inventory control, pricing, special decisions and product design. Synthesizes various PCSs into a coherent structure and introduces new PCSs such as direct costing and super direct costing (which are different from the classic variable costing and super variable costing) systems. Explains how the continuous nature of issues facing management needs a matching continuum of an endless number of PCSs.
An occupational preference model of turnover behaviour ‐ The case of Israel’s medical sector employees
Authors: Mano‐Negrin Rita
Published: April 2007

Occupational preferences and subsequent turnover behaviour are part of a complex relationship between employees and their occupational and organizational labour markets. Both markets contribute to matching skills and jobs. Differences in individual and occupational attributes can predict the direction and intensity of preferences for alternative organizations, occupations and job locations. Occupational preferences, which reflect the attractiveness of alternative positions within and outside the employing organization, are examined as central antecedents of occupation‐specific turnover behaviour. The results of a logistic regression analysis, based on a cross‐sectional occupational representative data set of 700 medical sector employees and a follow‐up sample of 81 “quitters”, suggest that turnover behaviour is influenced by organizational and occupational employment opportunities and occupational preferences.
Involving patients in research ‐ Setting up a service users’ advisory group
Authors: Rhodes Penny , Nocon Andrew , Wright John , Harrison Stephen
Published: April 2007

Looks at some of the issues raised by patients’ involvment in the research process. Uses the example of a service users’ advisory group established as part of a diabetes service evaluation in the north of England. Key conclusions were: a precise role for the group should be specified at the outset; genuine user involvement is needed; wide and accurate representation of all relevant groups in society is essential; and, researchers must approach users with open minds with a view to shared decision making rather than control.
Occupational Health Provision for NHS Staff: Users’ Opinions about Its
Roles
Authors: Amir Z.
Published: April 2007

In 1990, 682 staff (61 per cent response without reminder) employed by
17 districts in the North Western Health Authority were surveyed to
discover both their awareness of the existence of the Occupational
Health Service and other relevant agencies, and their views about the
principal roles of this service. There were replies from staff in six
main occupational groups. The results showed clearly that most employees
are aware of the existence of the service as a compulsorily provided
general practice, while a small group of managers thought of it as a
management tool to assist them in controlling their workforce. There was
some significant occupational variation which pointed to the same
direction – the strong curative image the service has among its clients.
The most important conclusion derived from this research is the urgent
need to expand NHS staff expectations towards more preventive activities
the Occupational Health Service might and should provide.
The Pre‐registration Year
Authors: Newman Karin , Pyne Tanya
Published: April 2007

The pre‐registration house officers′ year has a dual purpose. On the one
hand, there is the basic service requirement for long hours of routine
assistance to senior medical staff. On the other hand, there is the
educational component of the job as seen in the GMC and post‐graduate
deans′ objectives. Reports on a study which shows there is considerable
tension between these two objectives. Examines the extent and nature of
this divergence. Suggests that there are two problems to be addressed:
how best to generate a sense of ownership and affinity to the trust
hospital, and even more fundamental, requires a strategic audit and
reappraisal of the purpose of the pre‐registration year and strongly
suggests the desirability of reprofiling it in order to provide a rich
working experience and learning environment.
Who should lead in the NHS?
Authors: Oni Olusola O.A.
Published: April 2007

Until recently, health care was regarded in the UK as something
exceptional, and distinct from the world of business. In the last few
years, the vocabulary of the health market has changed beyond
recognition. Very rapid changes are taking place in the NHS and the
service is being fragmented. New relationships are emerging and new
roles are being created. Argues that it is becoming evident that the new
reforms are not understood clearly by those who are charged with
carrying them out, and that as a consequence of all these and other
factors, the workforce is confused and demoralized. There is a need for
leadership to help people cope. Concludes that the professionals, not
managers, are best equipped to provide this leadership.
Do you REALLY know what the competition is doing?
Authors: Mackus Darrell
Published: April 2007

Champions companies finding out what their opposition is doing through competitive intelligence departments, or a third‐party professional. Believes that if a company identifies, maps and analyses the opposition it will have a greater chance of success, which will then allow a plan to be formulated to give constant understanding and mapping of competitor movements.
Six priorities that make a great strategic decision
Authors: Burner Lippitt Mary
Published: April 2007

Spotlights Iridium, the satellite phone system vision company, and how it stole a jump on its competitors when it started in 1998, with global communication networks for international voice, data, and fax communication – but filing for bankruptcy a year later. Declares that Iridium did not foresee some of the problems, because of lacking in deep thinking of the potential areas of difficulties. Contends that getting it right is not easy, but becomes so when a systematic examination precedes the strategic decision.
Innovative or die
Authors: Jagersma P.K.
Published: April 2007

Concentrates on innovation as an under‐exploited path to success in the business community, though reckons becoming innovative is not easy. Suggests innovative companies have a number of common characteristics, which are ten strategies to be implemented to create success, these are listed in full. States the innovation process requires a tailored corporate strategy and dedicated execution to be a success, as in the case of companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Bang and Olufsen.
The need for speed
Authors: Gandossy Robert
Published: April 2007

Assesses how the pace of technology has an effect on our lives – even more so as nowadays technological advancement has exponentially expanded. Looks at how agile companies can make advantages over their competitors in the speed of response to events, such as how the Northwestern Insurance group responded to the New York terrorist attacks of 9/11. They processed 157 claims in 5 days when usual death claim is 30 days for each! Stresses five characteristics, which are basic for fast and agile organizations, these are: clear purpose; engaging climate; small unit accountability; outside‐in focus; and collective will.
The elephant walk
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: April 2007

Espouses the phrase “business strategy” and goes on to explain what the understanding of business strategy is not in a long bulleted list (20). Gives examples of what good business strategy is, citing Rosabeth Moss Kanter and Louis Gerstner (the saviour of IBM). Does not, though, agree fully with Gerstner’s ideas in entirety, but stresses the end was the main aim and not the road there.
Historical context
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: April 2007

Speculates about the US economy and whether it will recover, following the uncertainty due to terrorism in the West, occurring after the World Trade Centre and Pentagon attacks of 11 September 2001. States that not too many companies have experienced a stock market slump of real depth since the 1960s, but adds that history is on the side of an eventual rise to good highs, though there is no revival imminent.
Where did all the knowledge go?
Authors: Marren Patrick
Published: April 2007

Discusses the economy and knowledge management via a knowledge bases and looks at where this knowledge base is today. States knowledge is a human being’s rightful certainty of what is actually the case, but does not help directly with knowledge on the job. Uses an example of a knowledge creation of a substitute, robot‐like creature called a “Golem” with cautionary, tragic results, to show what could happen in business organizations.
On the Web, you’re a retailer
Authors: King Steve
Published: April 2007

Investigates retailing on the Web and how the quality of goods and services are not as important as the process your customers go through to buy them. Posits that, in the future, companies with a successful development of Web channels will need to keep customers’ interaction on board as much as any other core business function. Sums up that Web sites that are successful have mastered retail processes and all the major details required to go forward.
ROI is not a formula, it is a responsibility
Authors: Varghese Jacob
Published: April 2007

Reckons the success of technology initiatives depends on whether the person responsible for implementation has the required incentives, authority and credibility required in the organization. Uses figures to aid in explanation of dimensions in IT investments, responsibility and budget distribution. Concludes IT people must understand business strategy has been beaten to death as nowadays business people often have to understand the implications of technology for their business.
Magnetic intellectual property: accelerating revenues from innovation
Authors: Amram Martha
Published: April 2007

States there is a huge gap between recognizing there are potential profits in IP, and then realizing that potential, because the value potential for IP is not a new idea – consultants and analysts have been pounding on that message for decades. Stresses three phrases within, discipline, credibility, and shared expectations – are the result of an on‐going perspective and are used every day.
Content management: introduction to VINE 127 (1)
Authors: Cox Andrew
Published: April 2007

Discusses content management and its requirements, other than text and website management, such as bibliographic data, digital images, learning materials and links; suggesting librarians have already been doing this for years. Concludes content management has overtaken knowledge management as a buzzword.
Putting the human touch into knowledge management
Authors: Thornton Steve , McCracken Chrissie
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the development of a practical approach to the provision of knowledge facilitation in a major research organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the UK's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory and its Knowledge Services Department's approach to knowledge facilitation.

Findings

The ready availability of information/subject experts in the organisation encourages effective information gathering and use, together with the informal creation of knowledge networks running in parallel with the formal ones within the organisation.

Practical implications

Defines pragmatic and effective services, philosophy and tools introduced to improve the effective use and reuse of information and corporate knowledge. In addition there is a steady move from the provision of standard services to an information consultancy environment.

Originality/value

Redefines the role of library and information services to meet twenty‐first century needs.
Interview with Dan Holtshouse
Authors: Stankosky Michael
Published: April 2007

Dan Holtshouse started the Knowledge Initiative at Xerox ten years ago with the CEO's backing and positioned the initiative as a strategic imperative reporting into the Chief Strategy Office. Under Dan's mentorship, the Xerox Knowledge Management program has been cited as a benchmark for implementation in large global enterprises and has received over a dozen awards for knowledge management (KM) excellence. The knowledge theme at Xerox has been largely institutionalized around knowledge sharing with the granddaddy Eureka System in the large service organization still running continuously for over ten years.
Thermal reliability of high density interconnects utilizing microvias and standard through‐hole technologies
Authors: Young Todd , Carano Mike , Polakovic Frank
Published: April 2007

As high density interconnect (HDI) technologies become accepted in the printed circuit board (PCB) industry, build‐up multilayer (BUM) technologies utilizing laser ablated microvias have grown in popularity. This paper will look at the thermal reliability of the plated blind microvias and through vias using standard thermal shock procedures and interconnect stress testing (IST) methodology. Laser ablated microvias manufactured utilizing unreinforced materials and standard FR‐4 materials will be evaluated, along with colloidal graphite direct metallization and two electroless copper processes. The thermal reliability of these different materials and processes will be determined. This paper is intended to increase BUM usage by increasing the fabricator’s understanding of the processes needed to build metallized microvias and address questions on interconnect reliability by thermal testing.
Finite element modeling to analyze durability of BGA/CSP connections during thermal shock
Authors: Khan Subhotosh , Molligan Dan J.
Published: April 2007

Personal electronic devices at the user interface, like cell phones, utilize BGA/CSP structure for miniaturization of circuits. These structures are subjected to severe thermal loads due to environment of use. Starting with a microstructure of a failed board due to thermal cycles, the stresses/strains in this structure were analyzed from –408C to 1258C. In the finite element models (ABAQUS), we represented the structure as a composite of three‐dimensional (3‐D) elastic materials. The model showed stress/strain/energy concentrations at the actual failure points. The model also provided a route to improved durability by reducing these failure potentials, through change in the substrate of the printed circuit board (PCB). We observed significant reduction in failure potential when resin coated copper was replaced by THERMOUNT1 in PCB. This improved performance can be directly related to better‐matched modulus and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the PCB substrate to the chip (silicon). A more sophisticated model is under construction, where the time dependent material properties and non‐linear effects such as solder creep will be included.
Development of an HDI photovia process for portable products
Authors: Beuhler Allyson , Tungare Aroon , Savic John
Published: April 2007

The use of a “microvia” process for the fabrication of high density printed circuit boards and IC packages offers many advantages in terms of producing high interconnect density, cost competitive substrates for portable communications products. Motorola has put into production a sequential build HDI process that uses photoimageable dielectrics and semi‐additive copper metallization on a PWB substrate. Design capabilities for the current HDI process are 100μm/100μm line/space and 125μm /250μm via/pad. Plated through holes in the substrate are filled with a screen printable ink so that traces can be routed over the through hole area. This design capability meets routing and reliability requirements for current Motorola portable products. Future PWBs and IC packages, however, will need higher density features and higher performance materials. These features include finer line width, multiple HDI layers for routing dense SMT packages, low loss dielectrics for RF circuitry, higher Tg, and lower moisture dielectrics for DCA and IC package assembly.
Limits of copper plating in high aspect ratio microvias
Authors: Castaldi Steve , Fritz Dennis , Schaeffer Ron
Published: April 2007

This paper explores the capability of electroless copper deposition plus acid copper electroplating to metallize high aspect ratio microvias.
New normal‐propyl bromide based cleaning technology for the electronics industry
Authors: Chang Suae‐chen , Shubkin Ronald L.
Published: April 2007

Precision cleaning with solvent systems based on n‐propyl bromide (nPB) has become an important component of the circuit board fabrication process. The nPB‐based cleaners have proved themselves valuable alternatives to the once popular chlorocarbons and hydrochlorocarbons. These latter solvents have been largely banned or restricted because of toxicological and/or environmental considerations. n‐propyl bromide has nearly identical physical and cleaning properties to 1,1,1‐trichloroethane (1,1,1‐T or TCA), but it has a low Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a low Global Warming Potential (GWP). A growing body of evidence shows that nPB‐based solvents are safe, effective and cost‐efficient alternatives for precision cleaning applications. New formulations have now been developed specifically for the electronics industry. The first challenge is the efficient removal of ionic residues left by certain types of solder flux. The second challenge is the prevention of tarnish on silver leads used on some circuit boards. Case histories and a discussion of relevant toxicological, environmental and regulatory considerations will be included.
Controlling emissions stemming from the hot air solder leveling process
Authors: Lee Matthew A.
Published: April 2007

The oil, flux, and solder added to a hot air solder leveling tool creates an emission of oil mist, acidic gases, and solid metal compounds. The oil tends to form into very fine droplets, resulting in exhaust opacity. Diffusion type fiber bed filters are the optimal choice for the removal of oil mist. For optimal filter efficiency the exhaust stream should be cooled. A wet scrubber upstream of the filter will cool the exhaust stream through water evaporation. Additionally, the scrubber will remove acid vapor and coarse solids from the exhaust. The characteristic quality of a coalescing fiber bed filter is its ability to continuously drain liquid. The defining parameter in the service life of a fiber bed filter is the solids in the exhaust stream. These solids can lodge in the fibers and block a portion of the void area, and hence increase the filter pressure drop. In an attempt to extend filter life, a study was conducted for the use of detergents to clean the filter. These studies show that a detergent can extend filter life in the H.A.S.L. application by removing a blocking agent from the filter. Further tests are planned at additional locations to examine the performance at sites that use other ingredient formulations in the flux, oil, and solder.
Islamic banking in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Shahid Ebrahim M. , Kai Joo Tan
Published: April 2007

This paper studies the current realities of the Islamic banking system of Brunei Darussalam from the perspective of the theories of modern financial intermediation and Islamic financial contracting. The limited information on the banking system of Brunei Darussalam reveals that the first phase of the Islamic banking experimentation has been successful, as Islamic banks command roughly 11.5 per cent of the market share. The financial services industry, however, remains extremely competitive and Islamic banks face formidable challenges from conventional banks. Islamic banks can proliferate if they: advance towards the second phase by gradually consolidating retail banking with investment banking; establish vital links with local and foreign institutions; and use ijtihad in modern financial engineering to optimally design loans while simultaneously reducing their risk exposure. An efficient Islamic financial system can allocate limited capital resources to the most profitable ventures and assist in wealth creation. This can foster the growth not only of Negara Brunei Darussalam but also of the regional economies, particularly at this crucial juncture when Asian economies are reeling from the current financial crisis.
The business of the inner life: economics, communication, consciousness and civilisation
Authors: Armour Leslie
Published: April 2007

Communication systems are structured by economic forces which use them to optimise sales, and politicians who increasingly live by slogans and repeated sound bites. Both want people to act without much reflection, and may threaten to turn human beings into imitiations of the computers they use. Theorists first noticed that communication systems channeled goods and services, structured political geography, and created their own pictures of the world. They went on to describe communications devices which act as extensions of human senses. Now communication systems try to structure our inner lives. This paper examines reflective consciousness and its relation to civilisation. It suggests countervailing forces which make for thought and turn the ordinary aspects of life into art.
Social economist: St Antonino, Bishop of Florence, 1384‐1459
Authors: Alexandrin Glen , Poulatis Steven S.
Published: April 2007

Saint Antonino was an early economist and social scientist who addressed the need to design theories of production, value and distribution, in part becuase he saw the interconnectedness of individual elements. The system he discussed is more general than narrowly economic, embracing as it does meta‐history, God and men. His views are notable for their generality, their optimism in the dark pages of history, and the simple notion that all good will comes from pursuing a way to Christian polity.
What is Welfare Economics? A Belated Answer to a Poorly Appreciated
Question
Authors: Duhs L.A.
Published: April 2007

Cropsey′s 1955 invitation to reassess the particular metaphysic or
political philosophy which underpins modern economics remains
under‐appreciated. Reviews Cropsey′s 1955 argument in order to apprehend
just what charges are being laid at the door of modern welfare
economics. Considers the way in which Benjamin Ward misconstrued that
argument in his 1956 “rebuttal” and the same misunderstandings and
dividing lines which still exist in economics today. Offers illustration
from the contemporary economics literature (e.g. regarding the market
for baby adoption) to gauge the plausibility of Cropsey′s 1955
prediction that certain social, political and moral consequences will
follow for society in the longer run if more traditional metaphysical
teachings and conceptions of social welfare are undermined by what
Cropsey sees as the potentially destructive metaphysics embodied in
orthodox welfare economics.
A modest proposal for preventing the children of the poor from being a burden to their parents and making them beneficial to the public
Authors: Brenner Y.S.
Published: April 2007

Plagiarizes Jonathan Swift to produce a tongue‐in‐cheek proposal for the relief of the burden of children to the poor and so create benefits for the state. Claims satirically that the scheme would solve a number of societal problems.
The role of institutional change in post‐Communist transition
Authors: Elliott John E.
Published: April 2007

Examines the role of institutional change in post‐Communist transition, notably in the sequence of transformations. Explains the reasons for the strategic role of institutional change, the major elements of such change, a rationale explaining why, to create maximum effect, these changes should occur early in the sequencing process, prior to liberalization, marketization, stabilization or economic restructuring and substantial privatization. Theoretical analysis is employed with supporting empirical illustrations.
Is there anything new to be said after Adam Smith, Marx, Walras and Keynes?
Authors: Rugina Anghel N.
Published: April 2007

Argues that none of the basic problems in the science of economics and finance have been properly solved. Discusses the basic problems in theory and practice, in particular with the monetary system. Adds much to the teachings of Smith, Marx, Walras and Keynes and is even critical of Friedman. Proposes a “Third revolution in economic thinking”, where problems are studied in terms of a simultaneous synthesis between modern, pure empirical and classical, pure analytical economics.
A dividend function for Greek manufacturing
Authors: Anastassiou Thomas A.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

In this article an attempt is made to measure the amount of dividends allocated each year to shareholders in the large scale Greek manufacturing (establishments employing more than ten people).

Design/methodology/approach

The construction of a dividend function is made and the factors affecting dividend distribution in Greece are discussed.

Findings

While the original model provides for the effect of dividend taxation parameters – in addition to income considerations – in payout decisions, it is finally proved that a company's income is the sole main determinant of dividend distribution in Greek manufacturing.

Originality/value

The equilibrium income elasticity is found very close to one which indicates that dividends in Greece are proportional to profits.
Policy implementation models: the case of library and documentation services in Pakistan, 1998‐2008
Authors: Khalid Hafiz M.
Published: April 2007

The formation and implementation of policies are different issues in theoretical and practical terms. Implementation is more complicated, being concerned with political, financial, administrative and socio‐economic issues. It requires motivation, proper lobbying, and technical, professional and administrative support. A profession can directly and indirectly be a driving force for the implementation of policies. LIS in Pakistan lacks influence, recognition and the coordination to play such a role. It can be developed through socialisation, playing a broader part, developing more commitments with the profession and providing practical support to authorised agencies for policy implementation.
NISO Circulation Interchange Protocol (NISO Z39.83): a standard in trial
Authors: Stevens Pat
Published: April 2007

NISO (The National Information Standards Organization) has recently released the NISO Circulation Interchange Protocol (NISO Z39.83) as a Draft Standard for Trial Use. This protocol defines a repertoire of messages and associated rules of syntax and semantics for use by applications: to perform the functions necessary to lend items; to provide controlled access to electronic resources; and to facilitate co‐operative management of these functions. It is intended to address conditions in which the application or applications that initiate the lending of items or control of access must acquire or transmit information about the user, items, and/or access that is essential to successful conclusion of the function. The article describes the reasons for the development of the standard and provides an overview of the services that it supports.
The attributes of information as an asset
Authors: Oppenheim Charles , Stenson Joan , Wilson Richard M.S.
Published: April 2007

This paper reports first stage findings from an ongoing three‐year research project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB). The research is being conducted jointly by the Department of Information Science and The Business School at Loughborough University. Information assets of organisations are identified and attributes of information assets from the information science literature are discussed. Finally, future research plans for practical testing of attributes of information assets using case studies are briefly outlined.
The Internet: International Information Highway
Authors: Addyman Tony
Published: April 2007

The Internet has had an impact on the lives of millions of people. Many
could not work effectively without it. Over the past two or three years
a variety of new and exciting information services have appeared on the
Internet, each with its own distinct characteristics. Users, and
potential users, of the Internet need to appreciate the models on which
these services have been built. Presents an overview of the Internet and
an analysis of its information services. Explains the relationships
between the services to help users make an informed choice.
The Creation of Market Niches through Information in a Changing South
Africa
Authors: Thapisa A.P.N.
Published: April 2007

Shows that successful businesses today are market‐led rather than
production‐driven with attention being paid to quantity, quality and
regularity of supply. Suggests successful businesses need information
systems to create niches in the market, and states that priority should
be given data creation, collection and processing. Indicates that more
up‐to‐date information is needed on literacy rates, poverty levels,
school enrolment (to name a few) among black South Africans. Gives
methods on how to improve information systems in South Africa and
reveals how an information revolution has begun in some South African
companies. Concludes that the current political upheaval in South Africa
is a prerequisite to investment in business.
Balance or Bias? Information Selection for the Researcher
Authors: Barford Jane A.
Published: April 2007

Argues that the growing availability of information, especially from
electronic sources, offers both potential and problems for the
researcher. Increasingly, information has become a commodity,
commissioned for a specific purpose and shaped to fit the needs of the
commissioner. It follows that user requirements will dictate not just
the research remit (what information to collect) but also the selection
criteria (why the information is needed). Establishing why information
is needed is an integral step in deciding on the particular focus or
slant that any search strategy, and subsequent information analysis,
must take. A comprehensive, or indeed a balanced, collection of
information may be neither necessary nor desirable. End users may only
require information that will support their information need. Choice of
information sources will also be governed by these information needs,
and their selection is a vital factor in the provision of useful,
relevant information and its successful communication to the end user.
Geographical Information Systems (GIS): Their Use as Decision Support
Tools in Public Libraries and the Integration of GIS with Other Computer
Technology
Authors: Hawkins Andrew M.
Published: April 2007

Describes the the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) as
decision support tools in public libraries in England. A GIS is a
computer software system that represents data in a geographic dimension.
GIS as a decision support tool in public libraries is in its infancy;
only seven out of 40 libraries contacted in the survey have GIS
projects, three of which are at an advanced stage. Libraries are using
GIS for the display of users as postcode data over a layer of wards
thematically shaded as demographic data. This provides information for
library management. Users can be represented as having books on loan, or
as answering a user satisfaction survey. Decisions made on these data
are: mobile library routes, area management initiatives, service
targeting and capital development programmes.
Comic Book Collections in Brazilian Public Libraries: The Gibitecas
Authors: Vergueiro Waldomiro C.S.
Published: April 2007

Comic books are now becoming a part of public library collections. In
Brazil, public libraries are organizing special branches or departments
for comic books, calling them Gibitecas. Discusses the reasons for
public libraries to collect comic books, and reviews the range of
motives that took Brazilian librarians to provide them to their
customers. Also analyses the difficulties for collecting and
disseminating comic books, with special attention to the characteristics
of comic book publishing.
Sponsorship and fund‐raising in public libraries: American and
British perceptions
Authors: Christine Potts Janet , Roper Vincent
Published: April 2007

At a time of increasing cutbacks, libraries are under pressure to
investigate alternative sources of funding. Compares American and
British practice and strategies. Finds that US methods of raising funds
are: government grants; endowment funds; donations from individuals,
corporations and foundations; foundations/trusts specially established
for public library projects; Friends of the Library groups; and special
events and positive merchandising; while UK methods of raising funds
are: sponsorship; grants; donations; Friends of the Public Library; and
various joint ventures. Concludes that British libraries should take a
good look at the American picture and learn some of its lessons.
Stimulating the use of information in Kenya
Authors: Odini Cephas
Published: April 2007

Identifies some of the factors that hinder information use in Kenya
as the prevalence of inappropriate information systems, an unstimulating
education system, high levels of illiteracy and the language barrier.
Makes various recommendations for the stimulation of information use in
the country, including paying more attention to the information needs of
the user community and the communication process among each group of the
user community. Offers information experts in the country a challenge to
conduct qualitative user studies research which would lead to the design
of improved information systems.
Beyond the sword of Damocles
Authors: Dickins Gordon
Published: April 2007

School library services (SLSs) have faced a tremendous period of
change since the late 1980s, much of it resulting from the Education
Reform Act which brought about the national curriculum and shifted
management and financial responsibilities to schools themselves.
Changes, developments and challenges seem likely to continue through the
1990s and include continuing budget cuts and reductions, the varying
effects of local government review, the importance of recognition of
customer needs, implications of service provision to grant‐maintained
schools (possibly trading “beyond the margins”), enhanced
range of skills needed by SLS staff and imminent, detrimental effects of
budget reductions on school libraries.
The new library building of the University of Agriculture,
Abeokuta, Nigeria
Authors: Agboola A.T.
Published: April 2007

Describes the new library building of the University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, completed in 1992. Gives a brief history
of the existing library as background. Highlights the planning processes
involved, including critical choices made, location of the building,
preparation of architects′ briefs, architect‐librarian relationship,
choice of building contractors and features of the building. Discusses
problems of supervision, security and maintenance likely to arise from
the use of the building. Concludes that the library building meets the
required functional and aesthetical standards required of libraries in
the tropics and should be critically studied by other Nigerian
universities planning to put up their own libraries.
The importance of the voluntary sector in environmental information
provision: results of a questionnaire survey
Authors: Stephens Derek , Eden Paul
Published: April 2007

Presents the results of a questionnaire survey which revealed that
an estimated 590,000 enquiries were made to general enquiry offices of
the national offices of 111 national voluntary environmental
organizations in 1994. Over three‐quarters of organizations experienced
an increase over the past two years and one‐third expect to increase
their enquiry services this year. Consequently effective policies,
strategy and marketing are becoming more important as are guidelines
concerning response times, and the need to monitor enquiries. More than
50 per cent of enquiries come from the educational sector which prefers
the postal service to make enquiries. In contrast members need more
detailed information and prefer a telephone service. Several
organizations have developed Internet services, and almost all utilize
wordprocessing. Others use desk top publishing, and/or databases to
organize their data. Identifies a high level of commitment to the
general enquirer, together with the need to be cost effective in
preparing material, delivering a service and meeting the aims of the
organization.
Bradford University Library in the year 2000
Authors: Stevenson Malcolm
Published: April 2007

Attempts to predict the changes which will occur at Bradford
University Library by the year 2000. Suggests that changes will be more
of an evolution than a revolution. Discusses the services provided,
finances, staff skills, stock and space in terms of the present and
possible future.
Icons and OPACs
Authors: Suaiman Mubarak , Meadows Jack
Published: April 2007

Determines whether iconic interfaces might work with online public
access catalogues (OPACs), and assesses problems which students
encounter in using icons. Students from the UK and France were asked to
identify IBM, Mac and hand‐drawn icons and guess their functions. Mac
icons were the most easy and hand‐drawn icons the least easy to
identify. A number of students failed to guess the icon function second
time round. Results suggest that an icon‐based OPAC interface could be
popular, but would require careful design, particularly for a
multilingual interface.
The Internet: using NCSA Mosaic ‐ part 2
Authors: Manger Jason J.
Published: April 2007

The second part of a two‐part article presenting the computer program NCSA Mosaic which is a navigational tool for use with the World Wide Web, a system in widespread use over the Internet. Mosaic runs under Microsoft Windows. Describes the Mosaic interface, menus and options and gives guidelines on using them effectively. Reprinted from The World‐Wide Web, Mosaic and More by Jason J. Manger.
A family life cycle model adapted to the Spanish environment
Authors: Redondo‐Bellón Ignacio , Royo‐Vela Marcelo , Aldás‐Manzano Joaquin
Published: April 2007

Aims to demonstrate, from a marketing and market segmentation point of view, the need to adapt the construct of the family life cycle to the particular features of the Spanish social environment, given the obvious differences in the structure of Spanish households in relation to the USA. From this marketing and cross‐cultural approach, a review of the literature has been conducted on the evolution of the construct and the most significant models that have been arising as the outcome of that evolution. A new life cycle model has been designed reflecting these particular features. Also, on the basis of data taken from the Family Budgets Survey, the capacity of the adapted model has been analysed for predicting household expenditure in comparison with the main US models and the most habitual socioeconomic variables, and for detecting market segments with different needs. The results obtained show the utility of the construct adapted, both as a segmentation variable and as a predictor, together with the typical socioeconomic variables that explain household expenditure. The practical and academic utility of the model from a marketing approach, its potential adaptation to the Mediterranean European environment, and the main methodological limitation of the research are also discussed.
Nutrition labelling: issues and policies
Authors: Baltas George
Published: April 2007

Nutrition labelling of food products has received considerable attention in the marketing literature due to increasing consumer interest in health and diet issues. Nutrition labelling of food products is intended to enable informed consumer choices and stimulate the consumption and production of healthful products. Reviews nutrition labelling research, organises the literature, and discusses implications for policy makers, managers and researchers. Analysis of the literature suggests heterogeneous utilisation and comprehension of on‐pack nutrition information by consumers. The effectiveness of nutrition labelling depends also on the organisation and presentation of the information, implying the importance of regulatory issues. The topic is rich in public and marketing policy implications and provides several opportunities for further research.
Interfaces for resolving marketing, manufacturing and design conflicts
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Samar K. , Gupta Anil V.
Published: April 2007

Marketing‐manufacturing interface is becoming an increasingly important research area, as the firms unable to reduce inter‐departmental conflict find their global competitiveness compromised. Due to inevitable interaction of marketing and manufacturing with design engineering in conflict and resolution, there is a need to increase the scope of the research area of manufacturing‐marketing interface to include design (engineering) and establish appropriate interfaces between each pair of these domains. Some firms are practising concurrent engineering to minimise the conflict between design and manufacturing departments. Several interface variables can be used to resolve inter‐departmental conflict. A firm’s decision to pursue a particular interface requires commitment, investment and change in culture. What type of interface should a firm choose? This paper introduces a conceptual framework to resolve this dilemma. Specifically, the contribution of this paper is at least threefold. First, it characterises the possible conflicts that can arise due to interaction between the three functional areas – marketing, manufacturing, and design. Design is recognised as a separate function in its own right. Second, it identifies and describes possible variables that can be utilised as interfaces to resolve conflicts. Third, it establishes a methodology to develop a framework to assess inter‐departmental conflict and identify an optimal mix of interface variables to resolve all possible conflicts. The paper concludes with an actual case study involving a global marketing‐manufacturing company and provides an application of this framework and methodology.
Australian perceptions and experiences of international countertrade with some international comparisons
Authors: Liesch Peter W. , Palia Aspy P.
Published: April 2007

While conjecture surrounds attitudes toward countertrade, there are few studies reporting on empirical inquiries. Attitudes to and perceptions of various dimensions of countertrade are reported for Australian firms and some comparisons are drawn from similar studies conducted in the UK and Canada. Generally, attitudes toward countertrade of those Australian managers who were surveyed, which include both countertraders and non‐countertraders, are positive. This is the first empirical study of international countertrade of its type conducted in Australia. It follows in the tradition of studies conducted in the UK and Canada and it broadens international understanding of this form of exchange, which has long been practised in Europe, but not in Australia.
Commentary
Authors: Cunningham Anthony C.
Published: April 2007

In the light of the new millennium, discusses the shift in the power of paradigms, humorously illustrated with the examples of Christopher Columbus, Eratosthenes, Copernicus and Galileo. Tackles the problems involved in curriculum design, including the conflicting reductionist and constructivist epistemologies. Explores the concept of teaching myopia and the principles involved in pedagogy and andragogy. Highlights various approaches towards learning, covering traditional, action and Revans’ approaches. Outlines results, which suggest that graduates are not meeting the expectations of their employers in a variety of skills, including communication, teamwork and negotiation skills. Analyses what is perceived as a key attribute by Irish marketing practitioners and suggests radical changes in the methods used in the classroom.
Stakeholders in a hybrid market: the example of air business passenger travel
Authors: Mason K.J. , Gray R.
Published: April 2007

Selects European business air travel as an example of a market that displays both industrial and consumer characteristics, and subsequently defines it as having a hybrid nature. Adopts a stakeholder approach to overcome the problems of the identification and analytical complexity associated with the decision‐making unit in this hybrid market. Collects data on three stakeholder groupings in a survey of 827 business travellers. Identifies the nature of the decision‐making process and the influence that each of the stakeholder groupings has in the purchase decision. Indicates that marketing strategies in the business air travel market could prove more successful through addressing multiple stakeholder groups involved in the purchase decision process. Suggests that the stakeholder model may provide a practical research approach to other hybrid markets where the DMU approach is difficult, particularly where there are many purchasing units.
A combinatorial method for computing bounds on solutions of active non‐linear resistive networks
Authors: Cel J.
Published: April 2007

Let \cal N be a consistent connected network including independent voltage and current sources, positive linear resistors, multiterminal weakly no‐gain non‐linear resistors and equal numbers of nullators and norators, U(\cal N) a voltage appearing between a distinguished pair of nodes and I(\cal N) a current flowing in a distinguished branch in an equilibrium state of \cal N. It is proved that, under conditions detailed in the paper, U(\˜cal N1)≤ U(\cal N) ≤ U(\˜cal N2) and I(\overline \cal N\raise1pt1) ≤ I(\cal N) ≤ I(\overline \cal N\raise1pt2) where \˜cal N1,\˜cal N2,\overline \cal N\raise1pt1, and \overline \cal N\raise1pt2, are networks derived from \cal N by replacing non‐linear resistors by open‐ and/or short‐circuit structures. An earlier combinatorial method of estimating solutions of non‐linear resistive networks is extended to cover networks including active elements. The method is tested on simple examples of active diode‐transistor circuits.
A robust UPFC damping control scheme using PI and ANN based adaptive controllers
Authors: Ma Tsao‐Tsung , Lun Lo Kwok , Tumay Mehmet
Published: April 2007

This paper proposes an ANN based adaptive damping control scheme for the unified power flow controller (UPFC) to damp the low frequency electromechanical power oscillations. In this paper a novel damping control strategy based on the time‐domain analysis of system transient energy function (TEF) is proposed and implemented by using well tuned conventional PI controllers to obtain the preliminary training data for the design of the proposed controllers. The multi‐layered feed forward neural network with error back‐propagation training algorithm is employed in this study. Models of UPFC and ANN controllers suitable for incorporating with the transient simulation programs are derived and tested on a revised IEEE nine‐bus test system. Comprehensive simulation results demonstrate the great potential of using UPFC in damping control and the excellent performance of the proposed control scheme.