bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The FlexPaint project
Authors: Connolly Christine
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To present the technical and subsequent commercial developments arising from a large European research project into robotic paint‐spraying of low‐volume, highly variant components.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the economic need for robots that can plan their own paint trajectories for unknown parts, and describes the design and management of the project. Presents details of the technical approach taken by the researchers, the subsequent commercial developments, and the present state of the art.

Findings

The commercial developments following the research project promise a solution to the increasingly prevalent problem of small batch sizes in paint‐spraying. This opens up new markets, making much wider use of robot technology.

Originality/value

Updates robot specialists and general readers on the progress of a highly innovative European initiative.
JTM use Motoman to stack pails of lubricants
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To report on the design and development of a robotic palletizing system that handles both pails of lubricant as well as cardboard cartons or cases.

Design/methodology/approach

The customer selected a material‐handling expert to design and install the system after reviewing the offerings from a number of suppliers.

Findings

Careful planning, detailed simulation and attention to details helped ensure that the working production system was in service to meet a tight deadline.

Practical implications

Robotic solutions can be designed to handle a multitude of product configurations. Hiring an expert in the particular application type with specific prior experience addressing the project requirements can prove very beneficial. Improving throughput is just one of many benefits that such a project can provide. Other benefits may include, improving workplace safety, reducing floor space needs and adapting to small order sizes.

Originality/value

Knowing what others have accomplished can provide not only a project plan but can also bring fresh ideas to other projects. Helps designers think outside the box.
Gesture‐based human‐robot interaction using a knowledge‐based software platform
Authors: Hasanuzzaman  , Zhang T. , Ampornaramveth V. , Ueno H.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Achieving natural interactions by means of vision and speech between humans and robots is one of the major goals that many researchers are working on. This paper aims to describe a gesture‐based human‐robot interaction (HRI) system using a knowledge‐based software platform.

Design/methodology/approach

A frame‐based knowledge model is defined for the gesture interpretation and HRI. In this knowledge model, necessary frames are defined for the known users, robots, poses, gestures and robot behaviors. First, the system identifies the user using the eigenface method. Then, face and hand poses are segmented from the camera frame buffer using the person's specific skin color information and classified by the subspace method.

Findings

The system is capable of recognizing static gestures comprised of the face and hand poses, and dynamic gestures of face in motion. The system combines computer vision and knowledge‐based approaches in order to improve the adaptability to different people.

Originality/value

Provides information on an experimental HRI system that has been implemented in the frame‐based software platform for agent and knowledge management using the AIBO entertainment robot, and this has been demonstrated to be useful and efficient within a limited situation.
Handling unpredicted motion in industrial robot workcells using sensor networks
Authors: Walker Ian , Hoover Adam , Liu Yanfei
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Aims to show how sensor networks can be used to effectively allow industrial robots to handle unpredicted movements within their workcells.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents the concept of using sensor networks, using off‐the‐shelf technologies, to sense in real time movements within the workcell, and to feed this information, in real time, to the industrial robot controller, to allow adaptation of the robot to the movements. Results of numerous experiments in intercept and grasp of moving objects using a prototype of the system are reported.

Findings

Finds that the prototype system operates effectively and in a robust fashion in over 1,000 trials.

Research limitations/implications

Provides new insight and understanding for engineers working in the area of visually guided robots.

Practical implications

Results are of significant value to practitioners seeking to expand the markets of industrial robots by showing how to expand the capabilities of current systems with off‐the‐shelf technology.

Originality/value

Introduces the concept of using sensor networks to drive the controllers of industrial robots to intercept unpredictable moving objects in their workcells. Results are of value to practitioners working to expand the capabilities of their systems.
Consumption disparities in information society
Authors: Rasanen Pekka
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This article compares consumption differences between population groups in the fields of the traditional and new information and entertainment. The interest is to estimate to what extent traditional information and entertainment expenditure and expenditure on the new information technology display similar structural characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used is the Finnish Expenditure Survey data from 1998 (N=4359) and 2001‐2002 (N=5495) provided by the Statistics Finland. The information and entertainment consumption is studied by using purchasing costs of books and magazines, television license and pay channel costs, video rentals, and operating costs of phone and internet services. The differences by population groups are analysed according to the respondent's level of education and income, type of household, respondent's age and gender, and place of residence.

Findings

The findings indicate that the differences concerning books and magazines and especially phone and internet services have increased in the 21st century.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusions presented in this article are connected with circumstances during and after the product consolidation in Finland. In this regard it should be stated that the empirical analysis was restricted to the use of variables including different operating costs and to a short time frame in one European country.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that consumption disparities display the same structural characteristics in the realms of both traditional information technology (books and magazines) and new information technology (phone and internet services). Despite the fact that new technology is apparently available to everyone, growing disparities are displayed by both education and income.

Originality/value

This paper compares the traditional and digital divides in Finland to display the structural similarities and differences.
Stress, social support and depression in informal caregivers to people with HIV/AIDS in Lomé, Togo
Authors: Moore Ami R. , Vosvick Mark , Amey Foster K.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This study examined factors associated with depression in 125 informal caregivers to adults living with HIV/AIDS in Lomé, Togo.

Methodology

Each caregiver completed a questionnaire that assessed primary and secondary stressors, social support and depression. Most of the participants were women (78 per cent), married (53 per cent), and had been giving care to nuclear family members (63 per cent) for about 11 months. OLS regression was used to examine the association of primary and secondary stressors with self‐reported depression.

Findings

The analysis showed that caregiving demand, role captivity, and job conflict were positively associated with self‐reported depression. This suggests that work‐related strains and role strains were associated with depression levels among caregivers in our sample.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on a small convenience sample of volunteers and this may limit the generalisability of the results.

Practical implications

This knowledge can benefit HIV/AIDS service providers in counselling caregivers who need to maintain a healthy quality of life and well‐being for their difficult and challenging task.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to knowledge on caregiving role to people with chronic illnesses by incorporating an understudied population into the knowledge base.
Health care governance and gender relations within the health services of Germany and Italy
Authors: di Luzio Gaia
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The paper addresses the question of the contribution made by health service institutions towards the perpetuation of gender inequality within health occupations.

Design/methodology/approach

Institutions that enable the medical profession to exercise influence over the working, training and examination practices of other health occupations will be looked at in their role as sustaining the dominance of the medical profession over all other health services. Statistically analysing the proportions of women and men in health occupations the paper examines whether this is a gender‐specific form of dominance. Using an institutionalist actor‐centred approach it will be examined whether the stability of the subordination of the allied occupations depends on whether the medical profession is also a corporate actor allotted a central steering function in the governance of the health system. A comparison is made between Germany and Italy.

Findings

In Germany and Italy physicians fulfil the criteria for professional dominance. It is shown that in both countries there exists a gender‐specific segregation across the health occupations, women being under‐represented in the profession of physician, and greatly over‐represented in the subordinate occupations. Therefore, the dominance of the medical profession is gender‐specific. The dominance of the medical profession in Germany is reinforced by several institutions with the consequence of stagnation in the traditional relationship between physicians and allied health occupations. In Italy, more self‐determination of the allied health occupations in the areas of training and examination has become a distinct possibility.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to assess the impact of health care institutions on gender inequality within the health services.
Buyer‐focused operations as a supply chain strategy
Authors: van der Vaart Taco , Pieter van Donk Dirk
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Buyer‐focused operations aim at a high level of supply chain alignment by singling out resources for one buyer in order to serve this buyer optimally. The purpose of this paper is to identify what business characteristics make suppliers choose buyer‐focused operations as a supply chain strategy in their relationships with key buyers.

Design/methodology/approach

A broad range of qualitative and quantitative data was collected during interviews and plant visits in a multi‐case study research design. Nine units and 42 supply links with key buyers were investigated and analysed.

Findings

The suppliers choose buyer‐focused operations for different reasons. As expected, some of them choose buyer‐focused operations to fulfil the buyer's requirements in terms of flexibility (mix, volume, specification and timing). However, in other situations, buyer‐focus is used for other reasons: mostly to perform additional assembly operations. Suppliers rarely consider buyer‐focus of core production technology in relationships with buyers for which cost and speed are the main order‐winners.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on a relatively small number of cases. Although the findings confirm the theoretical framework, more empirical work is needed to better understand different forms of buyer‐focus. Further research should also point out if and how mutual trust and risk dispersal influence decisions to invest in buyer‐focused resources.

Practical implications

The results of this paper help managers in choosing between different forms of buyer‐focus, based on the specific characteristics of a supply chain link.

Originality/value

The paper introduces focus into the domain of supply chain management and shows that striving for close cooperation in a supply relationship needs to be carefully considered and depends on the business characteristics. The paper contributes also to a better understanding of the concept of buyer‐focus and distinguishes different types.
Determinants of supplier‐retailer collaboration: evidence from an international study
Authors: Sheu Chwen , Rebecca Yen HsiuJu , Chae Bongsug
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to increase the understanding of social and technical factors contributing to successful supplier‐retailer collaboration. The objective is to identify the necessary supply chain architecture for supplier‐retailer collaboration, and demonstrate how it influences supply chain performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Five pairs of suppliers and retailers in Taiwan were studied with each pair serving as a unit of analysis. In each case, data pertaining to eight relationship variables critical to collaboration between supplier and retailer were collected and analyzed. A comprehensive supplier‐retailer relationship model is developed with five specific research positions: supplier‐retailer business relationship (interdependence, intensity, trust) affects long‐term orientation; supplier‐retailer business relationship affects supply chain architecture (information sharing, inventory system, information technology capabilities, coordination structure); long‐term orientation affects supply chain architecture; supply chain architecture affects the level of supplier‐retailer collaboration; and supplier‐retailer collaboration enhances supplier‐retailer performance.

Findings

Overall, with the exception of duration, all variables are found to be critical to supplier‐retailer collaboration. It is the intensity, as opposed to the duration, of the relationship that influences the retailer‐supplier relationship.

Originality/value

The proposed model demonstrates how eight critical social and technical variables are directly and/or indirectly related. This knowledge will enable the management of supplier‐retailer networks to produce better supply chain collaboration and performance.
What is the “right” inventory management approach for a purchased item?
Authors: Wallin Cynthia , Johnny Rungtusanatham M. , Rabinovich Elliot
Published: June 2006

Purpose

How should a firm decide which of four choices – i.e. inventory speculation, inventory postponement, inventory consignment, and reverse inventory consignment – is most appropriate to adopt for a given purchased item in a particular context? This paper seeks to identify and explain the critical factors that drive this decision.

Design/methodology/approach

By conducting a review of relevant literature and deriving anecdotal observations from four case studies.

Findings

This decision is influenced by three factors – customer demand or usage requirements, nature of the supply line and bargaining power of a firm relative to the supplier.

Research limitations/implications

From the perspective of science, the conduct of both empirical research to augment the reported anecdotal evidence and conceptual research along a number of directions (e.g. to juxtapose the research findings in existing theories, to examine variations of the four “pure” inventory management approaches, or to consider the vantage point of the supplying firm rather than that of the buying firm) is encouraged.

Practical implications

As for the perspective of practice, the critical factors serve as the basis for the articulation of a decision framework – one that should help firms not only pin‐point the most relevant issues concerning a particular purchased item but also to avoid the costly mistake of selecting a less‐than‐ideal inventory management approach.

Originality/value

These critical factors, along with the proposed decision framework, extend prior research which has focused only on choosing between the inventory speculation approach and the inventory postponement approach.
A framework for assessing value chain agility
Authors: Swafford Patricia M. , Ghosh Soumen , Murthy Nagesh N.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To gain understanding of value chain (VC) agility in terms of value‐adding processes, this paper seeks to present a VC agility framework and then to develop the involved constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework of VC agility and its theoretical underpinnings is presented. Within the framework, drivers and determinants of VC agility are identified as characteristics enabling flexibility within key components of a firm's VC. Also, it is posited that information technology (IT) capability impacts the levels of achieved flexibility and agility, and that VC agility impacts business performance.

Findings

From scale development, key determinants of flexibility within VC activities are identified. Correlation analysis suggests that firms derive higher levels of agility through integrating information across the VC rather than within VC activities. Firms with flexibility in their VC functions enjoy higher levels of ensuing VC agility and on‐time delivery, ROA, and market share.

Research limitations/implications

While the sample size is adequate for scale development, it is not adequate for structural equation modeling since the guideline is to have at least five survey responses for every item measure. Thus, insights were gleaned from initial analysis based on correlations.

Practical implications

Managerial insights concerning key value‐adding activities that build flexibility and ultimately agility are identified.

Originality/value

To the best of one's knowledge, this work is the first to operationalize VC agility from the perspective that agility is derived from flexibility in the VC processes and is enabled by IT integration. From exploratory research, insights are gained on how VC agility links with business performance.
ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 standards: an international diffusion model
Authors: Marimon Viadiu Frederic , Casadesús Fa Martí , Heras Saizarbitoria Iñaki
Published: June 2006

Purpose

In an economic environment characterized in recent years by globalization and the integration of economic processes, standardization in management systems has had a high growth. In this context, there has been a remarkable increase in certain standards, or norms, issued by international organizations. Among these standards, two main groups stand out, both issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO): one for quality management systems – the family of ISO 9000 standards – and the other for environmental management systems – the ISO 14000 standards. This paper aims to analyze the world wide diffusion process of these two standards, using data provided by the ISO itself.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology proposed is developed in four separate phases. The first two analyze the diffusion model over time with a model based on the logistic curve proposed by Franceschiniet al.The next two phases analyze whether the diffusion process has proceeded in a relatively homogeneous way in the different sectors of activity. In order to do that, the use of indices of concentration and instability has been carried out.

Findings

The conclusion is that the diffusion of both standards is very similar – in general and in terms of the different sectors. This result coincides with certain hypotheses formulated in the theoretical literature.

Originality/value

This is the first paper where it can be demonstrated that, world‐wide, both the ISO 14000 and the ISO 9000 standards have followed very similar patterns of diffusion in their expansion.
Supplier performance and selection in China
Authors: Millington Andrew , Eberhardt Markus , Wilkinson Barry
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the availability and performance of different types of supplier in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on a survey of the purchasing behaviour of 75 western firms with manufacturing facilities in the eastern seaboard region of China and 167 separate supply relationships with foreign‐invested and indigenous Chinese suppliers.

Findings

The results suggest that, while the availability of indigenous suppliers is limited, private Chinese enterprises have the flexibility and potential to perform well if both the supplier and buyer are willing to make significant investments, especially in the areas of workforce training and quality procedures.

Practical implications

Firms should treat state‐owned enterprises with caution, carefully considering whether they have the willingness and flexibility to respond to investment.

Originality/value

This should prove beneficial to both supplier and buyer companies based in China, both now and in the future.
Exploring the barriers to the adoption of e‐auctions for sourcing
Authors: Hartley Janet L. , Lane Michelle D. , Duplaga Edward A.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To understand the differences in perceived barriers to e‐auctions both in US buying organizations that have adopted e‐auctions and in both those that have not.

Design/methodology/approach

Four propositions were developed based on the literature and case studies in eight companies that used e‐auctions for sourcing. Measures were developed for lack of e‐auction knowledge, lack of supplier participation, information security concerns and importance of supplier relationships. Survey data were gathered from 163 US National Association of Purchasing Management members. GLM‐MANOVA was used to test the propositions.

Findings

E‐auction adopters perceive information security to be less of a concern than non‐adopters. No significant differences were found between adopters and non‐adopters on the buyer's e‐auction knowledge, lack of supplier participation, and the importance of supplier relationships.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size limits statistical power, so small differences may not have been detected. The results may not generalize beyond the sample.

Practical implications

Supply managers should focus on reducing information security concerns within their organizations to facilitate adoption.

Originality/value

No published studies have explored the differences between adopters and non‐adopters of e‐auctions to identify barriers.
2005 Poetry Publication Showcase: selected titles
Authors: Romanos Michael
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a selection of poetry titles from the Poets House Showcase of 2005.

Design/methodology/approach

This article gives a review of the 2005 Poetry Publication Showcase.

Findings

This review represents a wide‐ranging selection of contemporary poetry collections and anthologies.

Originality/value

This list documents the tremendous range of poetry publishing from commercial, independent and university presses as well as letterpress chapbooks, art books and CDs in 2004 and early 2005.
Using depository exchange lists as collection development tools
Authors: Clemons Angel , Sproles Claudene
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to highlight the benefits of using depository exchange lists as collection development tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors provide a general overview of depository collection development and analyze exchange list activity at the national and local level.

Findings

Although exchange lists are widely available electronically, only a small portion of depository libraries actually use them as found in the analysis of exchange list activity at the national level. Many unique and out of print documents are regularly being offered on the lists.

Originality/value

This paper provides information on an area of government documents and collection development librarianship that is not widely covered in the literature. It highlights the use of exchange lists as a way to increase collections at a relatively low cost.
Zines in libraries: how, what and why?
Authors: Gisonny Karen , Freedman Jenna
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This paper sets out to discuss the importance of collecting alternative press materials, particularly zines, in libraries and presents case studies of zine collections; Barnard College Library and the New York Public Library.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper builds on work presented by the authors and others at the 12th National ACRL conference in Minneapolis, where zine collections in different types of academic and research libraries were discussed.

Findings

Zines document contemporary culture in the same way newspapers, magazines, TV, radio and movies as, but from a much different point‐of‐view. It is important for libraries to collect zines, and all alternative press materials, to ensure balanced and diverse collections, as well as securing primary source material for scholars today and in the future.

Originality/value

This paper provides concrete examples of how two libraries are handling collections of zines.
Alternative publications: library resources guide
Authors: Wang Hong
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This article is intended to be an overview of major library resources of alternative publications, focusing on the period starting from the 1960s to the present. It serves as a guide to library reference collections including resources in print, microfilms and online databases.

Design/methodology/approach

The annotated bibliography is divided into five sections: indexes, periodical and ephemera collections, bibliographies, agencies and associations, and books/reviews.

Findings

This overview of major library resources of alternative publications focuses on the period starting from the 1960s to the present. It serves as a guide to library reference collections including resources in print, microfilms and online databases.

Originality/value

Alternative publications are a unique library resource for social science research. They are usually referred to as non‐standard and non‐establishment publications, and they have their own indexes with specific finding guides that are not included in conventional periodical indexes or databases. It will be of interest to social science librarians and to reference librarians who work with researchers and students in social studies.
Mutuality
Authors: Couper Fiona
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to spotlight mutuality as a relevant, modern business model.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses desk research plus gathered industry experience.

Findings

Mutuality fulfils archetypical societal needs, with values that have wider business implications, for strategic direction, organic growth and employee engagement.

Practical implications

Some form of employee ownership (mutuality) could help address current‐day organizational issues. Explore underpinning values when considering future strategic direction and organic growth. Fulfill the needs mutuality meets to ensure better employee engagement and motivation.

Originality/value

Unquantified, but expect higher motivation, satisfaction, retention, sales and loyalty.
High speed imaging in the visible and infrared
Authors: Connolly Christine
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To present the specifications and the technologies underpinning some new high‐speed cameras, and explore their applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes the industrial, military and other applications of high‐speed imaging. Traces the recent technical developments in sensors for visible and infrared light. Then describes some specific high‐speed cameras.

Findings

CMOS sensors have now taken over from CCD in high‐speed visible cameras. Microbolometers have made low‐cost uncooled cameras available for infrared imaging. Applications range from serious research and development topics, such as air‐bag and seat‐belt performance and combustion studies, to investigations of natural phenomena and analysis of sports equipment.

Originality/value

Monitors the progress of imaging technology and describes its current capabilities to the interested reader.
Polychromatic monitoring of complex biological systems
Authors: Rallis I. , Glomon L. , Deakin A.G. , Spencer J.W. , Jones G.R.
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To illustrate the application of chromatic approaches to complexity with two illustrations each involving the interaction of two complex systems biological and polychromatic light.

Design/methodology/approach

Chromatic parameters (H, L, S) were derived from the monitored biological systems plant growth monitored by CCTV with light enhancement by light emitting diodes (LED) and human tissue oxygenation data that may be obtained from optical fibre‐based monitoring. A single chromatic parameter was derived from the H, L, S parameters.

Findings

The derived chromatic parameter CT appears to vary linearly with the aspect being monitored plant growth as indicated by chromatic parameters and blood oxygenation as indicated by chromatic parameters.

Practical implications

Illustrates the possibility of cost‐effective chromatic‐based monitoring and control of complex systems plant growth enhanced by high efficiency/low energy LEDs and human tissue blood oxygenation (TBO) as well as additional applications in advanced pulse oximetry and neonatal bilirubin monitoring.

Originality/value

Illustrates the application of a generic technology in the area of complex systems, where there are interactions between two complex systems, biological and polychromatic light. The chromatic technology supports the derivation of linear relationships for monitoring and control.
Combination of different fingerprint systems: a case study FVC2004
Authors: Nanni Loris , Maio Dario
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the correlation among the best state of art algorithms for fingerprint verification presented at Fingerprint Verification Competition FVC2004.

Design/methodology/approach

For this work, the matching results of more than 40 fingerprint systems from both academy and industry are available on standard benchmark.

Findings

The paper shows that the fusion among some competitors of FVC2004 permits a drastically reduction of the performance. Surprisingly, correlation between best performing algorithms is very low, that is, algorithms tend to make different errors: this indicated there is still much room for improvements.

Practical implications

The results of this paper confirm that a multi‐matcher system can overcome some of the limitations of a single matcher resulting in a substantial performance improvement.

Originality/value

The paper tests the fusion among the state‐of‐the‐art practitioners in fingerprint matching (the competitors of FVC2004).
Microfabrication influence on the behavior of capacitive type MEMS sensors and actuators
Authors: Packirisamy Muthukumaran
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To predict the influence of inherent microfabrication and operating environmental influences on the performance of capacitive type sensors and actuators so that one can tune the performance and carry out more realistic designs.

Design/methodology/approach

When the sensors and actuators are micromachined or microfabricated, they are subjected to special problems that are characteristic to microdimensions. The important concerns are the influence of microfabrication process on the material properties and influence of operating environment on the system behavior. Hence, this paper proposed a way of quantifying and modeling the influence of inherent limitations of microfabrication and operating environment for the better design of micromachined capacitive type sensors and actuators. The methodology applies the modeling the variation of the elastic property of the system due to above influences through elastic stiffening and weakening concepts. The approach includes the application of boundary conditioning concept through Rayleigh energy method.

Findings

The microfabrication process and electrostatic field can alter significantly both static and dynamic behavior of the device. The performance of the device could also be tuned through these influences.

Research limitations/implications

As the displacement of the sensors is expected to be small, linear approach is applied. The sensitivity, output range, operating limits and natural frequencies of the sensor can be easily controlled by varying the process and operating environmental influences.

Practical implications

Improved and more realistic design of microfabricated capacitive type sensors and actuators for many applications, such as, pressure sensors, microphones, microspeakers, etc.

Originality/value

A simple and easy way of modeling and quantifying the influence of process and operating environment was proposed for the betterment of design. The proposed design method can be applied for any micromachined or microfabricated capacitive type sensors and actuators so that varying sensitivities, output ranges and natural frequencies could be obtained. Over the last few years, newly emerging micro‐electro‐mechanical‐systems (MEMS) technology and micro‐fabrication techniques have gained popularity and importance in the miniaturization of a variety of sensors and actuators. The proposed technique is very useful in making the field of MEMS more matured as it attempts to model the problems that are unique to MEMS environment.
Gamma radiation sensors arrays based on metal oxide thick films
Authors: Arshak Khalil , Korostynska Olga
Published: June 2006

Purpose

Combination of a number of sensors with different response parameters into sensor arrays would enhance the overall performance of the radiation detection system. This paper presents a conceptual approach to the development of sensor arrays system with instantaneous dose and dose rate readout. A dynamic selection of multiple sensors with various sensitivity and accuracy range is implemented by applying pattern recognition (PR) analysis, which maximizes measurement accuracy. A number of relevant PR methods are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Thick films based on NiO, ZnO, In2O3, CeO2, TiO2, CuO and CdO are the key sensing elements in the proposed approach. Pure and carbon‐doped metal oxides were screen‐printed on Si wafers to form pn‐heterojunctions. All devices were exposed to a disc‐type 137 Cs source with an activity of 370 kBq. The values of radiation damage of pn‐junctions were estimated from changes in their current‐voltage characteristics.

Findings

Sensors showed an increase in the values of current with the increase in radiation dose up to certain levels, exceeding these levels results in unstable dosimetric characteristics.

Originality/value

The sensitivity of metal oxide films toγ‐radiation exposure depends on their composition and thickness. Mixing the oxides in different proportions and the addition of conducting particles, such as carbon, alters films susceptibility to radiation. In particular, sensors based on such films have dose response characteristics with certain level of sensitivity and working dose range, conditioned by particular sensing material properties and the device structure.
“Facing the wall” – “equal” opportunity for women in management?
Authors: Wood Glenice J. , Newton Janice
Published: June 2006

Purpose

To explore the failure of equal opportunity policies to counteract the barrier of children for women in management by considering male and female managers’ views on work culture, family division of labour and childlessness.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty Australian managers (19 male, 11 female) were interviewed as a follow up to a larger study in 1996, in order to extend inquiries around the issues of children, childlessness and senior management aspirations.

Findings

Managers acknowledge the impediment that children are to a woman's career path. They also have an awareness of patterns of delayed childbearing and potential childlessness. This awareness is confirmed through first hand experience in the families and at work. Managers also use a language of sacrifice and loss regarding their own or others’ failure to partner and procreate, as well as some reference to freedom and lifestyle. Furthermore there are diverging discourses on company loyalty and company greed given in relation to competing family loyalties and obligations. Finally, acknowledgement of gendered inequality (and some blindness to it) is indicated by both male and female managers.

Research limitations/implications

Although based on a small sample from one country, the findings do imply that it is unwise to assume that women committed to a career do not want children. The option of having both is not made easy.

Practical implications

Family policy for senior management should continue to be considered.

Originality/value

Recognition of the complexity and diversity of attitudes to children, family and work contributes to a critique of overdrawn notions of types of women (Hakim, 2001).
UK government small business finance initiatives
Authors: Fielden Sandra L. , Dawe Adel J. , Woolnough Helen
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This study focuses on the factors affecting equality of access to UK government grant and loan initiatives and the identification of gender differences in the uptake of those initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology was adopted as quantitative data is already available regarding the sources and levels of financing accessed. In total 32 interviews were conducted with 18 women and 14 men seeking business start‐up capital. A review of the advice and assistance offered by 31 business support agencies to potential and existing male and female business clients across the region also was undertaken.

Findings

The findings revealed that there is a discrepancy in the number of men and women business owners accessing grant and loans schemes. Women do not enter into business ownership with the same amount of capital as men, and women are far more likely to access loans and grants than traditional forms of financing.

Research limitations/implications

This is a preliminary investigation which needs to be extended and the relationship between service providers and small business owners further explored to provide a greater understanding of the complexities that relationship has on accessing government grants/loans.

Practical implications

The grant and loan system is highly complex and fraught with difficulties, which appears to exclude women and more specifically those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, i.e. those they were designed to assist.

Originality/value

Previous research has focused on private sector sources of business finance. This study is the first to look specifically at government grant/loan schemes that are targeted at those business owners who experience discrimination accessing traditional forms of finance.
Work experience and satisfaction of male and female professors in Turkey: signs of progress?
Authors: Koyuncu Mustafa , Burke Ronald J. , Fiksenbaum Lisa
Published: June 2006

Purpose

This research aims to investigate gender differences among professors in Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 243 male and 165 female professors using an anonymously completed internet based questionnaire. Measures included personal demographic and work situation characteristics, workaholism components and validating job behaviors (e.g. perfectionism) workaholism antecedents (e.g. beliefs and fears, organizational values), work and extra‐work satisfactions, and psychological well‐being.

Findings

There were considerable differences in personal demographic and work situation characteristics. Female professor were younger, more likely to be single, more likely to have fewer children, had less job and university tenure, were at lower ranks and earned less income. Female and male professors were similar on workaholic behaviors, work and extra‐work satisfaction and psychological well‐being, with one exceptions: female professors reported more psychosomatic symptoms.

Practical implications

Despite considerable demographic and work situation differences, female and male professors in Turkey report similar job behaviors, satisfactions and psychological well‐being.

Originality/value

Provides information on personal demographic and work situation characteristics among male and female academic staff in Turkey.
Workaholism among Australian psychologists: gender differences
Authors: Burgess Zena , Burke Ronald J. , Oberklaid Fay
Published: June 2006

Purpose − This study aims to examine gender differences in three workaholism and workaholism‐related variables. Design/methodology/approach − Uses measures developed by Spence and Robbins and examines gender differences in three workaholism components, workaholic job behaviors and work and well‐being outcomes among Australian psychologists. Findings − Females and males were found to differ on many personal and situational demographic characters, two of three workaholism components (work involvement, and feeling driven to work) males scoring higher. Females, however, reported higher levels of particular workaholic job behaviors (e.g. perfectionism, job stress) likely to be associated with lower levels of satisfaction and well‐being. Females and males scored similarly on work outcomes, family satisfaction, physical health and emotional health. Females indicated more psychosomatic symptoms and less community satisfaction but more friends satisfaction. Originality/value − Aids in the understanding of workaholism in organizations.
The role of business schools in society
Authors: Cornuel Eric
Published: June 2006

Purpose

In the future, the legitimacy of business schools will no longer be in question, nor will their vocation to participate in training the élite (especially of companies) alongside institutes which, in various countries, train top Civil Servants. But this context, which dominant positions always provoke, should not encourage complacency. On the contrary, it should invite reflection on the weaknesses of the institutions in question. Aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Some major new trends in management education are questioned (the use of new information technologies, an initiation to management starting at a much earlier stage of the education track, a different way to grasp the use of case studies).

Findings

This paper is an analysis of the functions of business schools and management faculties in universities. It leads one to observe that they appear above all as places busy “reproducing” or “miming” reality. Where science faculties describe, management teaching establishments imitate.

Originality/value

This paper is dedicated not only to stressing the pedagogic dangers that new trends in management education imply, but also to explaining what major change it could induce.
Establishing individual differences related to opportunity alertness and innovation dependent on academic‐career training
Authors: Craig Justin B.L. , Johnson Debra
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to investigate using the seminal writings of Schumpeter and Kirzner as a guide – individuals who are potentially involved in entrepreneurship can be identified as being innovators or opportunity‐alert. Specifically, this exploratory project attempts to answer the following question: “Are some individuals better at being innovators, while others are better able to recognize entrepreneurial opportunities and, if so, does academic‐career training matter?”

Design/methodology/approach

The study relied on purposive sampling and received survey responses from postgraduate students in business and engineering. The 26‐item survey was made up of demographic indices and questions from the Schumpeter and Kirzner literature. A total of 242 business and 525 engineering students received the e‐mail from academic advisors. Usable responses were received from 36 business students (15 percent response rate) and 67 engineering students (13 percent response rate).

Findings

The research found evidence that individuals with engineering training were not as proficient at recognizing opportunities as their business‐trained contemporaries.

Research limitations/implications

This is an exploratory research project which acknowledges the associated limitations. As well as contributing to a deeper understanding of two core entrepreneurship topics these findings have pedagogical and practitioner implications. From a pedagogy vantage point, instructors will be better equipped to frame courses in entrepreneurship if they better understand the propensity of their audience. The results indicate that this is particularly relevant to engineering schools. In practitioner terms, funding groups and various supporters of entrepreneurs (business angels, family financiers, and the like) will be better able to understand and work with individuals if they are aware that they are not, for example, alert to new opportunities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of innovation and opportunity alertness.
A culture of creativity: design education and the creative industries
Authors: Matheson Billy
Published: June 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the influence of the creative industries on design education in New Zealand.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of contemporary literature is presented to help define the term “creative industries”, and to locate this new “culture of creativity” within a wider global trend of creative cultural theory.

Findings

Cultural policy initiatives from Britain, Canada and New Zealand are reviewed and used to demonstrate how creative industries theory has sought to combine social, cultural and economic development.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is primarily concerned with recent changes to design education and the ways in which universities and polytechnics are attempting to meet the challenges of this new holistic approach to creativity and innovation.

Practical implications

In the final section the concept of interdisciplinary study of design is explored. This new model is developed through the example of a new interdisciplinary programme structure developed by the Wellington Institute of Technology in New Zealand.

Originality/value

In conclusion the concept of a “virtuous cycle” is used to describe the relationship between design education and the creative industries. This paper argues that, if this cycle continues, the creative industries will expand to become the model for a new economy based on social, cultural and economic entrepreneurship and change.