bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membranous Dysmenorrhea: A Case Series
Authors: Omar Hatim A. , Smith Shawn J.
Published: August 2011

The purpose was to illustrate the variability of hormonal contraception of patients that presented with membranous dysmenorrheal. A case analysis chart review was completed on six patients referred to a Pediatric Gynecologist in an academic setting. In each case the patient underwent a thorough pelvic and bimanual exam. Following the initial presentation, each patient continued to be followed on a regular visits. Cases: Two were using the transdermal contraceptive patch and oral contraceptive, but following the expulsion of decidual cast, they were both placed on depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) without further complications. Three of the six cases were on DMPA prior to the similar occurrence of membranous dysmenorrheal and following this incident, continued on DMPA without further problems. The final case was on the transdermal patch prior to decidual cast expulsion and remained on this form of hormonal contraception without further complications. These cases indicate that membranous dysmenorrheal is not limited to the use of DMPA.
A Case of Immunotactoid Glomerulopathy with Rapid Progression to End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Jain Shikha , Chhabra Darshika
Published: August 2011

Immunotactoid glomerulopathy (IGN) is a rare immunoglobulin deposition disease. It is often mistaken for cryoglobulinemia or amyloidosis due to the similarities on biopsy findings. The disease progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) within 7 months to 10 years. This is the first case reported of a patient with a diagnosis of IGN who developed acute kidney injury (AKI) and ESRD within 1 week of initial presentation.
Folded and Unfolded Conformations of Proteins Involved in Pancreatic Cancer: a Layman's Guide
Authors: Bravo Jerónimo , Neira José L.
Published: August 2011

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most difficult illnesses to treat, since the 5-year survival rate is lower than 5% in patients and no substantial advances in its treatment have been achieved in the last 20 years. Since cancer deregulation and progression are associated with changes in at least one biochemical pathway, the knowledge of the structure of the proteins involved in such routes seems to be crucial in order to understand how this cancer progresses and, more importantly, to design more efficient and rationally designed drugs. In this review, we describe the fold and structures of proteins involved in different signaling pathways that intervene during PC development and progression. In particular, we will focus on the most frequently mutated, or alternatively differently expressed, proteins in PC. The current knowledge suggests that most of the proteins carry out their function by interacting with others via specific domains and through key residues at the recognition interfaces; these amino acids are mutated in patients developing PC. Furthermore, phosphorylation seems to be a crucial regulation step along several signaling pathways. Finally, we show not only that well-folded proteins in several signaling pathways are critical in the development of PC, but also that natively unfolded “hub” proteins, able to interact with DNA or proteins, are also important in such cancer progression.
Multifunctional Receptor Stabilin-1 in Homeostasis and Disease
Authors: Kzhyshkowska Julia
Published: August 2011

The multifunctional scavenger receptor stabilin-1 (STAB1, FEEL-1, CLEVER-1, KIAA0246) is expressed on tissue macrophages and sinusoidal endothelial cells in healthy organisms, and its expression on both macrophages and different subtypes of endothelial cells is induced during chronic inflammation and tumor progression. Stabilin-1 is a type-1 transmembrane receptor that mediates endocytic and phagocytic clearance of “unwanted-self” components, intracellular sorting of the endogenously synthesized chitinase-like protein SI-CLP, and transcytosis of the growth hormone family member placental lactogen. The central sorting station for stabilin-1 trafficking seems to be the trans-Golgi network (TGN). Transport of stabilin-1 in the TGN requires interaction with GGA adaptors that bind to the classical DDSLL motif and a novel acidic cluster in its cytoplasmic tail. Degradation of stabilin-1 seems to depend on the interaction with sorting nexin 17. However, the mechanisms keeping stabilin-1 on the cell surface remain to be identified. This issue deserves specific attention due to the growing amount of data indicating that function of stabilin-1 in cell adhesion events is essential for inflammation and metastasis. Taking into consideration the complexity of stabilin-1—mediated processes, investigation of stabilin-1 functions in the animal models, as well as mathematic modeling of intracellular trafficking and extracellular contact, would enable prediction of stabilin-1 behavior in complex biological systems and would open perspectives for therapeutic targeting of stabilin-1 pathways in chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis.
Subjective Outcome Evaluation of the Project P.A.T.H.S.: Findings Based on the Perspective of the Program Implementers (Secondary 1 Program)
Authors: Tsang Sandra K.M. , Hui Eadaoin K.P. , Shek Daniel T.L. , Law Bella C.M.
Published: August 2011

The aim of the current study was to replicate the subjective outcome evaluation based on program implementers in the first year (2006/07 school year) of the Full Implementation Phase (Secondary 1 level) of the Project P.A.T.H.S. (Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programmes). After the completion of the Tier 1 program in the 2007/08 school year, 1324 implementers from 213 schools completed a Subjective Outcome Evaluation Form for instructors in order to assess their views of the program, themselves, and the perceived effectiveness of the program. Reliability test indicated the questionnaire was internally consistent. The results showed that, similar to the first year of implementation, high proportions of the respondents had positive perceptions of the program and their own performance. Regarding the perceived effectiveness of the program, roughly 90% of the respondents thought the program was helpful. A statistically significant increase in positive responses was also found in some items of perceived effectiveness in the second year of implementation. Possible factors contributing to such changes, including accumulation of experience and skill enhancement of the implementers, as well as stronger support from the schools, are discussed.
Privacy and Biometric Passports
Authors: Vakalis Ioannis
Published: August 2011

This work deals with privacy implications and threats that can emerge with the large-scale use of electronic biometric documents, such the recently introduced electronic passport (e-Passport). A brief introduction to privacy and personal data protection is followed by a presentation of the technical characteristics of the e-Passport. The description includes the digital data structure, and the communication and reading mechanisms of the e-Passport, indicating the possible points and methods of attack.
Approach to Multiple Pulmonary Nodules: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Niknam Farshid , Chen Jiezhong , Napaki Sabar , Aghmesheh Morteza
Published: August 2011

Chest X-ray and CT examinations often find pulmonary nodules that could be malignant or benign. A case is presented and discussed here in order to improve diagnosis and management of pulmonary nodules. A 62-year-old lady was found to have multiple pulmonary nodules by X-ray when she complained of a cough and fever. This was confirmed by a CT scan. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of one of the lung lesions reported scant atypical epithelial cells that stained positive for TTF-1 and cytokeratin 7, but negative for cytokeratin 20. Thus, it was suspicious for large cell carcinoma. A videothoracoscopic lung biopsy and histopathology were applied and showed a necrotic nodule with surrounding chronic inflammation and macrophage response, with no evidence of malignant cells. Atypical reactive pneumocytes at the periphery of the lesion (an old infarct) were probably equivalent to the atypical cells seen on cytology. This result changed the diagnosis of our patient from a malignant condition to a benign process. Thus, CT and FNA may give a false positive. A second pathological opinion is very useful for the right diagnosis and management, as shown in our case.
Defining theProtein Complex Proteomeof Plant Mitochondria
Authors: Klodmann Jennifer , Senkler Michael , Rode Christina , Braun Hans-Peter
Published: August 2011

A classical approach, protein separation by two-dimensional blue native/sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, was combined with tandem mass spectrometry and up-to-date computer technology to characterize the mitochondrial “protein complex proteome” of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) in so far unrivaled depth. We further developed the novel GelMap software package to annotate and evaluate two-dimensional blue native/sodium dodecyl sulfate gels. The software allows (1) annotation of proteins according to functional and structural correlations (e.g. subunits of a distinct protein complex), (2) assignment of comprehensive protein identification lists to individual gel spots, and thereby (3) selective display of protein complexes of low abundance. In total, 471 distinct proteins were identified by mass spectrometry, several of which form part of at least 35 different mitochondrial protein complexes. To our knowledge, numerous protein complexes were described for the first time (e.g. complexes including pentatricopeptide repeat proteins involved in nucleic acid metabolism). Discovery of further protein complexes within our data set is open to everybody via the public GelMap portal at www.gelmap.de/arabidopsis_mito.
Prediction of contact surface temperature between rough sliding bodies – numerical analysis and experiments
Authors: Ray Sudipto , Roy Chowdhury S.K.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The paper's aim is to predict numerically the contact temperatures between two rough sliding bodies and to compare with the experimental results.

Design/methodology/approach

An elastic contact algorithm is used to analyze the normal contact between two nominally smooth surfaces. The algorithm evaluates real contact area using digitized roughness data and the corresponding contact pressure distribution. Using finite element method a steady state 3D temperature distribution at the interface between the sliding bodies is obtained. Using infrared (IR) imaging technique, experiments were carried out to measure the contact temperature distribution between rough rubbing bodies with a systematic variation of surface roughness and operating variables.

Findings

Contact temperature distributions over a wide range of normal load, sliding velocity and surface roughness have been obtained. It was seen that the maximum contact temperature expectedly increases with surface roughness (Sa values), normal load and sliding velocity. The results also indicate that the “hot spots” are located exactly at the positions where the contact pressures are extremely high. Temperatures can be seen to fall drastically at areas where no asperity contacts were established. The temperature contours at different depths were also plotted and it was observed that the temperatures fall away from the actual contact zone and relatively high temperatures persist at the “hot spot” zones much below the contact surface. Finally it is encouraging to find a good correlation between the numerical and experimental results and this indicates the strength of the present analysis.

Research limitations/implications

Experimental accuracy can be improved by using a thermal imaging camera that measures emissivity in situ and uses it to find the contact temperature. The spatial resolution and the response time of the camera also need to be improved. This can improve the correlation between numerical and experimental results.

Practical implications

One of the major factors attributed to the failure of sliding components is the frictional heating and the resulting flash temperatures at the sliding interface. However, it is not easy to measure such temperatures owing to the inherent difficulties in accessing the contact zone. Besides, thermal imaging techniques can be applied only with such tribo‐pairs where at least one of the contacting materials is transparent to IR radiation. In practice, such cases are a rarity. However, the good correlation observed between the numerical and experimental results in this work would give the practicing engineer a confidence to apply the numerical model directly and calculate contact temperatures for any tribo‐material pairs that are generally seen around.

Originality/value

A good correlation between the numerical and experimental results gives credence to the fact that the numerical model can be used to predict contact temperatures between any sliding tribo‐pairs.
The wear behaviour of duplex treated AISI 5140 steel
Authors: Totik Yasar , Alsaran Akgun , Celik Ayhan , Efeoglu Ihsan
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This work aims to investigate the wear behavior of manganese phosphate coating on plasma nitrided AISI 5140 steel.

Design/methodology/approach

Prior to manganese phosphate coating, plasma nitriding of substrates was performed at gas mixture of 50 percent H2 and 50 percent N2, for the different treatment parameters. The structural, mechanical and tribological properties of the substrates were determined using hardness test, optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy , X‐ray diffraction and pin‐on‐disk tribotester. The wear behavior of untreated, nitrided and duplex treated substrates was evaluated under dry sliding conditions.

Findings

The results indicated that the duplex treatment improved the wear behavior. It was also observed that manganese phosphating of the nitrided substrates at low temperature (450°C‐2h‐N) resulted in a decrease of the wear rate and yielded a reduction in the friction coefficient by forming a transfer film at the counter face.

Originality/value

This study can be a practical reference and offers insight into the effects of duplex treating on the increase of wear resistance.
Robotic aircraft land at the Unmanned Show in the Mile High City
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to review the AUVSI Conference and show held in Denver, Colorado with emphasis on unmanned vehicles or service robots, their application on the ground, in the air and in the water.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews with exhibitors of unmanned vehicles and the providers of the technologies which are fundamental to their design and deployment. Also attendance at conference presentations.

Findings

The unmanned vehicle industry is largely driven by government requirements, both military and civilian. Unmanned service robots are also found in applications such as crop monitoring and fish school location at sea.

Originality/value

Unmanned vehicles continue to address air ground and marine application needs where human safety is important. The vehicles continue to become more and more autonomous, ever better to address a wider range of application requirements.
High school student goes to class robotically
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to build awareness of how telepresence or service robots are coming to the aid of students who might not otherwise be able to attend school in person or others who might need to be in two places at once.

Design/methodology/approach

Discussions with the manufacturer and review of other coverage of the VGo telepresence or service robot in action.

Findings

A service robot can really enhance the educational experience of students by allowing them to be “at school” when previously they were precluded from joining in with fellow students in the classroom and other school venues. The service robot gives humans the ability to independently see, hear, join in and move about the school or business situations when otherwise they might not be able to be present when they want or are needed somewhere else.

Originality/value

A real example of how a service robot can permit a human to be in two places at once, such as a student who cannot go to school in person. It goes well beyond providing audio and visual linkage to also providing mobility.
Blending algorithm for position control with a hybrid actuator made of DC servomotor and brake
Authors: Gonenc Berk , Gurocak Hakan
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to present a hybrid actuator controller to obtain fast and stiff position response without any overshoot by blending input signals of a DC servomotor and a particle brake.

Design/methodology/approach

The hybrid actuator controller has a module to estimate instantaneous changes in inertia and a blending algorithm that adjusts input signals to the motor and the brake so that together, as a hybrid actuator, they can achieve a fast, stiff position response without overshoot. The control logic implemented in the controller is derived from the kinematics of the system. For the blending algorithm, two separate cases are explored in which the user has the option to either utilize the full‐braking capacity or specify a safe deceleration limit for the system.

Findings

The blending algorithm enables the system to operate nearly twice as fast as the motor‐only case without any overshoot or oscillations. The controller can reject inertial load changes and significant external disturbances.

Originality/value

Such hybrid actuators along with the developed controller can be used in robotics and automation to increase the system accuracy and operational speed resulting in higher production rates. In addition, much stiffer haptic force feedback interfaces for virtual reality applications can be designed with smaller actuators. The blending algorithm provides considerable improvements and uses a physics‐based simple and easy‐to‐implement structure.
A new articulated leg for mobile robots
Authors: Gonzalez Rodriguez Antonio , Gonzalez Rodriguez Angel , Rea Pierluigi
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The paper aims to present a new mechanical scheme for a leg to be included in legged vehicles that simplifies the control actuations along the stride.

Design/methodology/approach

The scheme includes three four‐bar links grouped in two mechanisms. The first one decouples the vertical and horizontal foot movements. The second one produces a constant horizontal foot velocity when the corresponding motor is given a constant speed. A hybrid robot with wheels at the end of the hind legs has been simulated and constructed to validate the leg performance.

Findings

The gait control requires only five commands for the electronic cards to control the leg. Decoupling vertical and horizontal movements allows a more adequate selection of actuators, a reduction of energy consumption, and higher load capacity and robot velocity. Additional mechanical benefits, such as improved robustness and lower inertia, are obtained. The hind legs can also be articulated, allowing the robot to overcome an obstacle and to climb up and down stairs.

Research limitations/implications

A hybrid robot offers greater stability with respect to a legged robot. This way the lateral movement is not a concern, and therefore it has not been tested yet during the walking cycle.

Originality/value

This new scheme obtains a quasi‐Cartesian behaviour for the foot movement that drastically simplifies the control of the walking cycle. Although the decoupling between movements has already been obtained in previous configurations, these follow a pantograph structure and suffer from blocking problems when they are subject to lateral forces. These schemes were suitable for crab‐like gaits. The proposed leg moves according to a mammal‐like gait.
Who murdered strategy?
Authors: Speculand Robin
Published: August 2011

Purpose

In business, the statistic that nine out of ten strategies fail has gone viral over the last couple of years. A prime reason for this is that leaders are under intense pressure in the current economic conditions to deliver on their strategy promises to shareholders. This article offers advice on how to execute a successful strategy within your organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Gives advice for businesses that are trying to implement their next strategy, highlighting the importance of learning from past mistakes and making the right choices.

Findings

Leaders must recognize that strategy implementation is extremely difficult and that they habitually underestimate its challenges. They perceive crafting strategy as the harder challenge and therefore by default blame the toughest area when it fails. Executing strategy, however, is just as tough as crafting the right strategy.

Practical implications

Provides tangible strategies that managers can adopt to enhance the effectiveness of their business strategy.

Originality/value

This article offers sage advice on how to implement a successful strategy, focusing on some of the trends that will start to appear over the next few years.
Interview with Paul Nunes and Tim Breene, authors of Jumping the S‐curve
Authors: by Juliet Harrison Interview
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an interview with Paul Nunes and Tim Breene, authors of Jumping the S‐Curve

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent interviewer.

Findings

Every successful business eventually peaks. Greatness does not last. It falls prey to competition and commoditization, as well as obsolescence from the introduction of new technologies and innovations. And when a business's revenue growth stalls, only 7 percent ever go on to reclaim growth that is better than the growth of the market overall. The only solution is to jump to another growth curve, again and again.

Practical implications

Paul Nunes and Tim Breene take a look at the nature of the business “S‐curve”. Shaped like the first half of the bell curve, this curve is the characteristic depiction of how a new line of business ramps up, grows aggressively, and then ultimately flattens out. Through their interview, Paul and Tim give practical advice on what businesses should be doing in order to prepare for their next “S‐curve”.

Originality/value

The accelerating pace of business is forcing more top management teams to manage both their current successful business and their future business simultaneously. In the past, managers could often wait until the current business was firmly established, or even beginning to show signs of decline, before starting on the next. No longer. In this interview, Nunes and Breene highlight some of the most important disruptors emerging today, including cloud computing and sustainability, which are affecting companies in all industries, offering advice to companies wanting to take the lead in their own reinvention.
Shock wave simulations using Sinc Differential Quadrature Method
Authors: Korkmaz Alper , Dağ İdris
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to present a numerical solution of non‐linear Burger's equation using differential quadrature method based on sinc functions.

Design/methodology/approach

Sinc Differential Quadrature Method is used for space discretization and four stage Runge‐Kutta algorithm is used for time discretization. A rate of convergency analysis is also performed for shock‐like solution. Numerical stability analysis is performed.

Findings

Sinc Differential Quadrature Method generates more accurate solutions of Burgers' equation when compared with the other methods.

Originality/value

This combination, Sinc Differential Quadrature and Runge‐Kutta of order four, has not been used to obtain numerical solutions of Burgers' equation.
Probabilistic evaluation of seismic liquefaction potential in field conditions
Authors: Jafarian Yaser , Baziar Mohammad H. , Rezania Mohammad , Javadi Akbar A.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

In this paper, the peak kinetic energy density (KED) of soil particles during earthquake excitation is used as an intensity measure for the evaluation of liquefaction potential under field conditions. The paper seeks to discuss this measure.

Design/methodology/approach

Using centrifuge tests data, it is shown that seismic pore water pressure buildup is proportional to cumulative KED at a particular soil depth. Linear relationships are found between cumulative kinetic energy and corresponding cumulative strain energy. To consider the effect of soil amplification, several equivalent linear ground response analyses are performed and the results are used to derive an equation for depth reduction factor of peak kinetic energy density. Two separate databases of liquefaction case histories are used in order to validate the proposed model. The performance of the proposed model is compared with a number of commonly used shear stress‐based liquefaction assessment methods. Finally, the logistic regression method is employed to obtain probabilistic boundary curves based on the present model. Parametric study of the proposed probabilistic model is carried out to verify its agreement with the previous methods.

Findings

It has been shown that the kinetic energy model works satisfactorily in classifying liquefied and non‐liquefied cases compared with the existing recommendations of shear stress‐based criterion. The results of the probabilistic kinetic energy model are in good agreement with those of previous studies and show a reasonable trend with respect to the variations of fines content and effective overburden pressure. The proposed model can be as used an alternative approach for assessment of liquefaction potential.

Originality/value

These findings make a sound basis for the development of a kinetic energy‐based method for assessment of liquefaction potential.
Tin whisker analysis of Toyota's electronic throttle controls
Authors: Sood Bhanu , Osterman Michael , Pecht Michael
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to present the results of physical analysis that was conducted on Toyota's electronic engine control system including accelerator pedal position sensors (APPSs). The paper overviews the analyses and focuses on the discovery of tin whiskers found in the accelerator pedal assembly, which are an electrical failure concern.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical techniques such as X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy are utilized to present a construction analysis of the APPS.

Findings

The use of a tin finish in the APPS is a cause for concern. Tin finishes are known to produce metal whiskers that are conductive and capable of creating unintended current leakage paths. In the analysis, a significant number of tin whiskers were found.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology discussed in this paper can be implemented to inspect for tin whiskers in the APPSs.

Originality/value

The paper begins a construction analysis of different parts of the Toyota engine control module and APPSs and then moves on to highlight electronics design issues that can comprise the engine control system and cause unintended consequences.
Eight key HDI design principles
Authors: Holden Happy , Pfeil Charles
Published: August 2011

Purpose

High‐density interconnect (HDI) continues to be the fastest growing segment of the printed circuit board (PCB) market. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the differences in designing HDI compared to conventional PCB multilayers. This is important for the challenging aspects of very high‐speed electronics that require care to control signal integrity and power integrity.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight new design principles were studied and illustrated with emphasis on how these differ from conventional PCB design.

Findings

HDI implementation can be improved 2X to 4X by employing these new design principles. Densities from 6‐12 in. per sq. inch to 18‐48 in. per sq. inch have been reported. Design time reductions of 50 percent and cost reductions of 30 percent were also seen.

Research limitations/implications

This work was focused on the basic design principles and does not address electronics design automation tools or specific design steps. PCB design is a complex activity and readers are encouraged to obtain and use the references cited.

Originality/value

The paper describes various design and layout procedures that the authors have learned over the last 29 years involved in printed circuit design and fabrication. These principles can be combined with other innovations to enable a much more beneficial use of HDI technologies.
A brief history and recent developments in day‐of‐the‐week effect literature
Authors: Philpot James , Peterson Craig A.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief review of pre‐2003 work on the weekend effect and then discuss how recent selected work has extended our knowledge of the subject.

Design/methodology/approach

Results of recently published studies are organized and summarized by research question and outcomes.

Findings

While early literature found a fairly consistent weekend effect, with positive returns on Fridays and negative returns on Mondays, more recent research shows the effect moving to other days, reversing or vanishing.

Research limitations/implications

While it is difficult to compare studies made across different time periods, the direction of present research gives insight into how markets are adjusting to the weekend effect anomaly.

Practical implications

Investors may find it very hard to adequately identify a trading strategy based on current research.

Originality/value

This work conveniently synthesizes and presents current research findings from a variety of published sources.
Numerical simulation of electrical engineering devices
Authors: Pantelyat M. , Shulzhenko M. , Matyukhin Y. , Gontarowskiy P. , Dolezel I. , Ulrych B.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to present a methodology of computer simulation of coupled magneto‐thermo‐mechanical processes in various electrical engineering devices. The methodology allows determining their parameters, characteristics and behaviour in various operation regimes.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical model consisting of three equations describing magnetic field, temperature field and field of mechanical strains and stresses (or thermoelastic displacements) is solved numerically, partially in the hard‐coupled formulation.

Findings

The methodology seems to be sufficiently robust, reliable and applicable to a wide spectrum of devices.

Research limitations/implications

At this stage of research, the hard‐coupled formulation of thermo‐mechanical (or thermoelastic) problems is still possible only in 2D.

Practical implications

The methodology can successfully be used for design of numerous machines, apparatus and devices from the area of low‐frequency electrical engineering ranging from small actuators to large synchronous generators.

Originality/value

Complete numerical analysis of coupled magneto‐thermo‐mechanical phenomena in electrical devices.
Domains of validity of quasistatic and quasistationary field approximations
Authors: Steinmetz Thorsten , Kurz Stefan , Clemens Markus
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The paper aims at proposing a uniform and demonstrative description of two well‐known and widely used approximations of slowly time‐varying electromagnetic fields, i.e. the electro‐quasistatic and the magneto‐quasistationary approximation to Maxwell's equations.

Design/methodology/approach

Under both approximations, the orders of magnitude of the relative errors of the dominant fields are analyzed by using three characteristic time constants. These time constants are determined by considering the material properties, the characteristic length scale and the characteristic time scale.

Findings

Limiting curves which show the domains of applicability of the two approximations are retrieved from the estimation of their relative errors. The relation between the domains of validity of the electro‐quasistatic and magneto‐quasistationary approximations was found and depicted in a combined diagram.

Research limitations/implications

The study is restricted to slowly time‐varying electromagnetic fields. Heuristic and local estimates based on local material properties were used for the analysis. Rigorous estimations of the errors (e.g. also considering the field problem's topology) of the magneto‐quasistationary approximation are already known in the literature. A rigorous estimation of the error of the electro‐quasistatic approximation is, therefore, suggested for future research.

Originality/value

The combined diagram showing the domains of validity of both approximations considered here in a uniform way is novel. It gives rise to an intuitive and easily accessible understanding of their applicability.
Testing of composite materials using advanced NDT methods
Authors: Łopato Przemysław , Chady Tomasz , Sikora Ryszard
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present capabilities of terahertz imaging technology in case of various composite materials and to propose a new defect detection algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first discusses an applicability of the terahertz technique in composite materials inspection. It then describes source of terahertz radiation (photoconductive antenna) and general structure of terahertz time domain imaging system. Next the terahertz imaging results of composite anticorrosion coating, glass‐ and carbon‐fiber‐reinforced laminates are presented. Then the signal processing and identification scheme based on time domain A‐scan signal equalization and C‐scan thresholding is presented. Data processed in this way are parameterized and defect identification database is prepared. The proposed procedure is verified using the exemplary inspection results of glass‐fiber laminate delamination. Finally, some comparison of terahertz time domain inspection with low energy digital radiography is presented.

Findings

This paper shows terahertz imaging as a well‐suited technique for composite structures inspection. The terahertz imaging results of composite anticorrosion coating, glass‐ and carbon‐fiber‐reinforced laminates are presented. An application of proposed signal processing algorithm enables accurate defects detection and effective data collection for identification database purpose.

Originality/value

The paper provides an insight into the potential of terahertz imaging of various composite structures. Proposed signal processing and defects detection scheme is applicable to wide range of composite structures.
Geometric dynamics of nonlinear circuits and jump effects
Authors: Thiessen Tina , Mathis Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to give an outline about the geometric concept of electronic circuits, where the jump behavior of nonlinear circuits is emphasized.

Design/methodology/approach

A sketch of circuit theory in a differential geometric setting is given.

Findings

It is shown that the structure of circuit theory can be given in a much better way than by means of a description of circuits using concrete coordinates. Furthermore, the formulation of a concrete jump condition is given.

Originality/value

In this paper, an outline is given about the state of the art of nonlinear circuits from a differential geometric point of view. Moreover, differential geometric methods were applied to two example circuits (flip flop and multivibrator) and numerical results were achieved.
Assessing the managerial relevance of contemporary supply chain management research
Authors: Thomas Rodney W. , Clifford Defee C. , Randall Wesley S. , Williams Brent
Published: August 2011

Purpose

Discussions about the managerial relevance of scholarly research have been taking place for decades and the topic continues to be a source of debate in a number of business disciplines. The purpose of this paper is to make an initial attempt to empirically assess the relevance of supply chain management research.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative methods were utilized to provide some initial evidence that can help validate or refute assumptions about perceived relevance in contemporary supply chain management research.

Findings

Findings of this research indicate that the most impactful supply chain management issues for managers are internal supply chain organizational structure, communication and information exchange, information technology, forecasting and sales and operations planning, and strategic leadership. Some of these managerial issues appear to be well aligned with recent research trends, but other issues are not frequently researched.

Research limitations/implications

Future research opportunities are identified based on managerial feedback. Results of this study also suggest that a broader view of supply chain management may be appropriate if researchers want to be managerially relevant.

Practical implications

This research potentially highlights opportunities for firms to gain a competitive advantage via their approach to supply chain management.

Originality/value

This research utilizes a unique approach to assess managerially relevant topics through a “magic wand” interviewing technique (i.e. “If we gave you a magic wand and granted you just one wish, what would you wish for to improve your supply chain?”).
Supply chain networks and service‐dominant logic: suggestions for future research
Authors: Tokman Mert , Beitelspacher Lauren S.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The service‐dominant (S‐D) logic views supply chains as value co‐creation networks. These networks promote knowledge growth amongst network members via resource deployment and coordination. The exchange of knowledge and utilization of operant resources among the network members leads to co‐created service offerings and value proposals for the end‐users, with the ultimate goal of transforming end‐user experiences to perceptions of superior value‐in‐use. The purpose of this paper is to develop an illustration of the value co‐creation concept and use this illustration as guide to examine the research gaps that are yet to be tapped in the area where supply chain networks and S‐D logic intersects.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on S‐D logic is reviewed and research gaps are identified and categorized in three specific groups.

Findings

Three categories of research gaps in S‐D logic and supply chain management (SCM) areas include: gaps in utilization of internal operant resources by suppliers, manufacturers, and intermediaries; gaps in knowledge exchange and operant resource utilization between suppliers, manufacturers, and intermediaries; and gaps in knowledge exchange and operant resource utilization between end‐users and value co‐creation network partners.

Originality/value

An illustration of the value co‐creation network from the supply chain perspective is presented in this paper. The illustration of the value co‐creation network provided the guidance to categorize various research gaps in the area of S‐D logic and SCM. This categorization offers a structure from which more systematic research may be produced. It is the authors' hope that the organization and guidance provided in the paper for specific research topics in the S‐D logic area can result in research streams that could potentially offer significant contributions to SCM theory development.
Die noodsaaklikheid van rekeningkunde‐opleiding vir prokureurs: Enkele empiriese bevindings
Authors: Lubbe D.S. , Raubenheimer E. , Britz R.
Published: August 2011

The amendement of the carriculum for the so‐called four‐year LLB degree that has been presented at universities since 1998 put great pressure on faculties of law at that time, because they had to reflect on the curriculum for the degree over a relatively short period. Legal Accounting was one of the courses that were probably included by most universities as optional subjects in the curriculum and no longer as a compulsory subject as the situation used to be for the BProc degree. However, the admission examination for attorneys still includes an examination paper on Legal Accounting. Therefore an increasing number of students have to sit for this examination without having attended a course in Legal Accounting. In the light of this situation, two research projects were undertaken in 1997 to determine the views of attorneys and prospective attorneys on accounting training for the two groups. As three years have passed and persons with the four‐year LLB degree are entering the legal profession, it was decided to repeat the project to determine whether the views of the two groups of respondents had changed since the previous project. In this article, the views of the practising attorneys and prospective attorneys are discussed and compared with the results of the 1997 project.
Die toedelingstelsel as alternatiewe belastingvoorstel vir kleinbesigheidskorporasies
Authors: Scheepers D.
Published: August 2011

The progressive importance of the small business sector to the facilitation of economic growth that is necessary for the creation of job opportunities in South Africa, cannot be overemphasised. The role which tax reform plays in the encouragement of the small business sector is of the utmost importance in providing an enabling environment. The purpose of this article is to address the less advantageous treatment of, especially, assessed losses in the corporate form as opposed to the non‐corporate form. In the course thereof an alternative tax proposal, based on the working of the S Corporation in the United States of America, is put forward, which could improve neutrality between the various enterprise forms. The tax treatment and functioning of the S Corporation is investigated to determine the applicability and practicality of such a treatment of assessed losses and profits for the corporate form in South Africa. Such an application is necessary because of the assumed influence that the treatment of assessed losses have in the choice of an enterprise form. This choice should,
however, be based on economic considerations rather than on tax considerations. A neutral tax system should not influence people to choose one course of action above another mainly or solely because their position is more favourable under one of the options.
Empiriese bevindings aangaande die nakoming van korporatiewe beheerriglyne in jaarverslae van sekere genoteerde Suid‐Afrikaanse maatskappye
Authors: Vorster Q. , Lubbe D.S.
Published: August 2011

The implementation of the principles of corporate governance by South African companies has increased considerably since the release of the King Report in 1994. This report exerted a great influence, especially regarding the disclosure of information on corporate governance in the annual financial statements of companies. Several research projects have been undertaken to determine to what extent companies abide by these principles in their annual financial statements. This article reflects the results of a research project in which the annual financial statements of certain listed South African companies, which were published during 2000, were analysed with regard to the above‐mentioned matter. The results of the project are also compared with those of a similar project undertaken in 1999. The matters addressed in this article deal with inter alia directors and directors’ remuneration, remuneration committees, audit committees, codes of conduct, adherence to the King Report and employees’ involvement.
The financial accountability of HIV/AIDS
Authors: Barac K. , Otter J.
Published: August 2011

HIV/AIDS has implications of varying severity across a wide spectrum of businesses in South Africa. Financial accountability is therefore required to enable investors and other stakeholders to be advised regarding the effect of HIV/AIDS on company performance and to make informed decisions. This paper explores financial accountability with regard to HIV/AIDS. It investigates top management’s awareness, coping strategies and financial information (available and required) that is communicated internally and to stakeholders. Its empirical content concentrates on major public companies that operate in industries in which HIV/AIDS is known to be present. It reveals that companies are informed and pragmatic. However, many do not engage in legally permissible prevalence testing, and thereby frustrates attempts at a clear definition of the problem and at forecasting. Most companies are therefore unable to project what the effect of HIV/AIDS on future performance and profitability will be. The paper concludes that, although HIV/AIDS receives attention in terms of corporate governance, there is an absence of financial accountability via annual reports and financial statements. Many companies have no information available, while others may elect not to disclose it.
An innovative approach to accounting education at the first‐year level
Authors: de Wet J.H. , van Niekerk M.C.
Published: August 2011

In an educational environment in which global trends prompt educators to consider alternative approaches to teaching and learning, new ways should be found to educate more efficiently and effectively. In line with this learner/customer‐centred approach, the first‐year students in Financial Accounting at the University of Pretoria were requested to complete a questionnaire in order to identify weaknesses in the current approach, highlight possible areas to be developed or make suggestions regarding the improvement of the course. The results yielded several clear indications of the changes that could be made and new ideas that could be considered. Some of these suggestions have been implemented. The results, which are being monitored continuously, are reported in this article.
Problems in respect of adherence to disclosure requirements regarding interim financial reporting in South Africa ‐ An overview and recommendations to solve these problems
Authors: Oberholster J.G.I. , Nieuwoudt M.J.
Published: August 2011

For years, interim financial reports in South Africa were regulated by the South African Companies Act No. 61 of 1973 (as amended) (i.e. statutory requirements) and by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Listing Requirements (i.e. regulatory requirements) only. However, on the international front, major progress was being made in respect of improving the quality of interim financial reporting. South Africa soon followed suit and issued its own accounting statement, AC 127, which is based on the international standard (IAS 34). The School of Accountancy at the University of Pretoria commenced a research project on interim financial reporting in 1997 to investigate compliance with related reporting requirements. This paper is a product of the project. The purpose of the study reported in this paper was to: [a] Compare the requirements stated in IAS 34 and AC 127 with the local regulatory and statutory requirements, to determine whether these requirements are duplicated and to establish in which respect the accounting standards require additional disclosure requirements. [b] Provide an overview of the extent to which companies listed on the JSE adhered to IAS 34 and AC 127 and complied with regulatory and statutory requirements in their interim financial reports in the period 1997 to 1999. [c] Make recommendations regarding the improvement of local statutory and regulatory disclosure requirements.