bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fields, losses and forces due to moving current distributions coaxial with a cylindrical conductor
Authors: Ciric Ioan R.
Published: April 2007

An exact mathematical solution has been obtained for the quasistationary electromagnetic field of a circular current loop coaxial with a conducting circular cylinder in uniform relative motion with respect to each other. The vector magnetic potential corresponding to a filamentary loop carrying a variable with time current is determined by applying the method of separation of variables. Expressions for the fields outside and inside the cylindrical conductor, the eddy‐current distribution, the power loss and the interaction force are derived directly from the vector potential. The fields due to practical current coils are obtained by integration from the results for the filamentary loop. An approximate simple formula is presented for a loop carrying direct current at high velocities. The analysis performed is relevant to the design and operation of magnetic devices with metallic cores in motion, linear electrical machines and electromagnetic launching systems.
Finite‐element modelization of slotted configurations by means of magnetically anisotropic smooth cores
Authors: Andriollo M. , Martinelli G. , Morini A. , Tortella A.
Published: April 2007

The paper presents a methodology in which the slotted regions of electrical machines are replaced by homogeneous regions with anisotropic magnetic permeability. The resulting FEM model is then built and solved in an easy way, because a simplified structure is analyzed, with fixed geometrical characteristics and electrical and magnetic properties depending on the original geometry. The methodology is therefore useful for estimating the machine performances as a function of slot and winding parameters and can be conveniently used at the initial step of the design to perform parametrical analyses and optimizations with uncomplicated procedures for the generation of the FEM model. In order to test the reliability of the method, the FEM results obtained with both the actual configuration and the “smoothed” one must be compared. In the example of application, the proposed methodology is applied to a linear brushless DC motor. The dependence of the accuracy and convergence speed on different “smoothing” strategies is first discussed. Then the obtained results are compared with the ones related to the original slotted configuration. Finally, the correspondence of some important electromagnetic quantities (flux lines distribution, air‐gap flux density and electromagnetic force) is analyzed.
Two‐dimensional finite element modelling of overlap joints in transformer cores
Authors: Gyselinck J. , Melkebeek J.
Published: April 2007

The influence of overlap joints in transformer cores on the local flux and eddy current distribution and on overall transformer characteristics is studied by means of two‐dimensional finite element (2D FE) models. A simplified 2D FE model of a single overlap joint is used for estimating the resulting increased magnetomotive force and increased eddy current losses. Both effects can be accounted for in a 2D FE model of the complete transformer by locally adopting modified material characteristics (viz. BH‐curve and electrical conductivity) in the cross‐section of the core. This novel method is demonstrated and validated by applying it to a three phase transformer. The calculated no‐load currents and losses are compared to the measured ones.
3D eddy current FE analysis of electromechanical devices
Authors: Canova Aldo , Ottella Marco , Hill‐Cottingham Roger John
Published: April 2007

Presents the use of a 3D eddy current FE procedure for the analysis and design of two different induction machine structures: a radial and an axial machine. In the first case, attention is devoted to the simulation of locked rotor conditions and a linear 3D time harmonic eddy current FE analysis has been employed. The obtained results have been compared to 2D analysis and experimental data. The axial flux machine is analyzed under fixed speed conditions and a 3D time‐stepping and velocity eddy current problems are solved to evaluate machine performances. Different design configurations are analyzed in order to define the best solution.
Edge element multigrid solution of non‐linear magnetostatic problems
Authors: Weiß Bernhard , Bíró Oszkár
Published: April 2007

A geometric multigrid (MG) method for the efficient solution of 3D non‐linear magnetostatic field problems is presented. A finite element method (FEM) with edge elements is used to describe the magnetic vector potential. A numerical example is presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the MG method not only for linear, but also for non‐linear problems.
Triangle search method for nonlinear electromagnetic field computation
Authors: Munteanu Irina , Drobny Silvia , Weiland Thomas , Ioan Daniel
Published: April 2007

This paper presents a hybrid algorithm used, in conjunction with the Finite Integration Technique (FIT), for solving static and quasistatic electromagnetic field problems in nonlinear media. The hybrid technique is based on new theoretical results regarding the similarities between the Picard‐Banach fixed‐point (polarization) method and the Newton method. At each iteration, the solution is obtained as a linear combination of the old solution, and the new Picard‐Banach and Newton solutions. The numerical solutions are calculated through a “triangle” (bidimensional) minimization of the residual or of the energy functional. The goal of this combination is to increase the robustness of the iterative method, without losing the quadratic speed of convergence in the vicinity of the solution. The proposed method generalizes and unifies in a single algorithm the overrelaxed Picard‐Banach and the underrelaxed Newton methods.
Modified Bean model and FEM method combined for persistent current calculation in superconducting coils
Authors: Völlinger C. , Aleksa M. , Russenschuck S.
Published: April 2007

Field variations in the LHC superconducting magnets, e.g.during the ramping of the magnets, induce magnetization currents in the superconducting material, the so‐called persistent currents that do not decay but persist due to the lack of resistivity. This paper describes a semi‐analytical hysteresis model for hard superconductors, which has been developed for the computation of the total field errors arising from persistent currents. Since the superconducting coil is surrounded by a ferromagnetic yoke structure, the persistent current model is combined with the finite element method (FEM), as the non‐linear yoke can only be calculated numerically. The used finite element method is based on a reduced vector potential formulation that avoids the meshing of the coil while calculating the part of the field arising from the source currents by means of the Biot‐Savart Law. The combination allows the determination of persistent current induced field errors as a function of the excitation and for arbitrarily shaped iron yokes. The model has been implemented into the ROXIE program and is tested using the LHC dipole magnet as an example.
Comparison of multi‐objective optimisation approaches for inverse magnetostatic problems
Authors: Carcangiu S. , Di Barba P. , Fanni A. , Mognaschi M.E. , Montisci A.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to compare two different approaches to multi‐objective optimisation in magnetostatics; in this way, the case study is investigated as a possible benchmark.

Design/methodology/approach

A Tabu search method modified withε‐constraint algorithm is compared with a multi‐objective multi‐individual evolution strategy. The case study is the automated shape design of a magnetic pole. In order to reduce the computational cost of solving the direct problem, which requires repeated analyses of the magnetic field, a neural network has been used to approximate the objective functions that depend on the design variables.

Findings

An approximation of the Pareto front for each method is obtained. A twofold comparison between the two methods is made, based on both the result accuracy and the computational cost.

Originality/value

Two different methods were already tested on a case study proposed as a benchmark for multi‐objective optimization in magnetostatics. The paper represents a contribution to bridge the gap between analytical and numerical benchmarks in electromagnetism.
Efficient modeling approach for optimization of a system based on passive diamagnetic levitation as a platform for bio‐medical applications
Authors: Chetouani H. , Delinchant B. , Reyne G.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to present a modeling approach of diamagnetic microsystems for design and optimization requirements. It is demonstrated on the stabilisation optimization of a diamagnetic levitation system for biomedical applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Surface approach was used to compute analytically the magnetic field induction. This modeling is depending on system to design (approximation, equation simplifications due to specific geometries) coupled with a design framework which is based on symbolic equation derivation and SQP constrained optimization algorithm.

Findings

Optimally stabilized magnetic levitating systems, for a pyrolitic graphite micro plate and for a latex bead.

Research limitations/implications

The analytical or semi‐analytical modeling of magnetic field induction and forces produced by complex geometries is sometimes either hard to establish or not adequate to perform a fast optimization, due to heavy numerical parts implemented into the device modeling.

Practical implications

Implications are of two kinds. First are results of the magnetic levitating system which can improve lab on a chip for biomedical applications. Second is design framework improvement with diamagnetic modeling capabilities.

Originality/value

Stability optimization of diamagnetic levitation system, based on an original approach of modeling and sizing with dedicated tools.
Identification of equivalent dynamic model parameters in eddy current problems
Authors: Brykalski Andrzej , Rogala Tomasz
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The goal of the paper is to introduce a new method of obtaining equivalent dynamic model of electromagnetic field quantities. Proposed algorithm allows approximation of the frequency and step response by a simple inertial element model, with adjustable rank and delay. The values of the model parameters may be also used to describe the dynamics of considered system.

Design/methodology/approach

The dynamics of interesting field quantity in certain space location may be represented by an equivalent model of inertial element. Parameters of the model are identified using the solution of the problem in quasi‐stationary conditions for very limited number of excitation frequencies. These solutions are further used to build a matching approximation of real frequency response function (FRF).

Findings

The proposed method allows fast approximation of transient states of linear vector field. It may be useful with fast and relatively precise estimation of dynamic parameters of the electromagnetic field, e.g. in screening and eddy current problems.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of the method is the assumption of linearity of the problem. However, many practical tasks similar to the examples presented in the paper can be considered highly linear.

Practical implications

The main advantage of the method is that it allows fast estimation of the field dynamics without either solving the problem for whole range of frequencies or computing the transient state in time domain. It does not need the access to the original mass and stiffness matrices. Therefore, it may be used with commercial FEM software, which usually restricts access to its internal data.

Originality/value

The method is based on well known concept of moments, but the use of existing stationary FEM solutions for approximating transient states is a novel approach. Proposed procedure may be easily automated for the simulation environments with scripting capabilities.
Performance analysis of locally recurrent neural networks
Authors: Cannas B. , Cincotti S. , Fanni A. , Marchesi M. , Pilo F. , Usai M.
Published: April 2007

Many practical applications of neural networks require the identification of non‐linear deterministic systems or chaotic systems. In these cases the use of a network architecture known as locally recurrent neural network (LRNN) is often preferable in place of standard feedforward multi‐layer perceptron (MLP) networks, or of globally recurrent neural network. In this paper locally recurrent networks are used to simulate the behaviour of the Chua’s circuit that can be considered a paradigm for studying chaos. It is shown that such networks are able to identify the underlying link among the state variables of the Chua’s circuit. Moreover, they are able to behave like an autonomous Chua’s double scroll, showing a chaotic behaviour of the state variables obtainable through a suitable circuit elements choice.
Conditions for the existence of an X‐point in a magnetic field
Authors: Massarini Antonio , Reggiani Ugo
Published: April 2007

A sufficient condition for the existence of a node (i.e. an X‐point) in lines of a quasi‐static magnetic induction field is proved. The theoretical approach is developed for two‐dimensional fields. The problem of obtaining an X‐point in a magnetic induction field is encountered in toroidal devices (tokamaks) for controlled thermonuclear fusion experiments. The proposed method is capable of identifying possible X‐point locations through the knowledge of field variables which are easy to calculate and/or measure.
The second stir and incompleteness of quantitative analysis
Authors: Ou Yang Shoucheng , Miao Jinghai , Wu Yong , Lin Yi , Peng Taoyong , Xiao Tiangui
Published: April 2007

Based on the summary and analysis of the particle dynamics, developed in the past 300 years, and of fundamental properties of unevenness of natural materials, we propose the opinion of the second stir. We analyze the gains and loses of employing the non‐dimensionalization method developed in the quantitative analysis system of the first push. Combined with some theoretical models, we also consider the epistemological failures of pure quantification, linearization, and formal logic analysis.
Simplifying complexity
Authors: Musès C.
Published: April 2007

Complexity in various contexts in the current global scene is studied in terms of its feedbacks and feedforwards, revealing how our understanding of it and our implementation of that understanding may be fruitfully simplified.
Uncertainty information and uncertainty systems
Authors: Qing Yin Wang , Biao Ren , FengLi Wang
Published: April 2007

We introduce the concepts of information, uncertainty information, systems and uncertainty systems, analyze the intension of these concepts, and point out the differences and connections among various concepts of systems. We put forward a mathematical method to research uncertainty systems and present a problem that can be solved with our method but cannot be solved with the interval analyzing method. Otherwise, from analyzing the purpose of introducing the concepts of information, uncertainty information, systems and uncertainty systems, we conclude that uncertainty information and uncertainty systems are among the most important subjects studied in scientific research, especially in applied research, both that being presently conducted and the abundance which is to come in the future.
Alternative theory to Robinson’s arousability theory – Alternative explanation of sex‐related differences
Authors: Fidelman Uri
Published: April 2007

Robinson (1998) found that women have a larger cerebral arousal than men, and men have a larger Gsar factor of intelligence than women. It is suggested that this finding had been predicted by a previously published theory of this author. This is a continuation of a discussion, most of it in cybernetical journals, between Robinson and the present author about the biological origin of intelligence. Robinson relates intelligence to arousability, which he defined as the maximal level of activity which the cortex can obtain without activation by the brain‐stem. The author’s theory also takes into account the probability of transmission errors in the synapses and individual differences due to hemisphericity. The development of the ideas of this theory is surveyed; in each stage this theory encompassed more biological theories of intelligence. An appendix provides empirical evidence of sex‐related and hemispheric differences.
New tests with a multipurpose parallel genetic hybrid algorithm
Authors: Östermark Ralf
Published: April 2007

A newly developed genetic hybrid algorithm (GHA) is applied for complex nonlinear programming problems. The algorithm combines features from parallel programming, classical nonlinear optimization methodology and evolutionary computation utilizing a powerful accelerator technique. The algorithm compares well with other evolutionary programming techniques on a set of difficult mathematical programming problems. The test results add significant evidence on the potential of the general solution framework in solving complicated optimization problems. Some suggestions for further research are also provided.
Three modern enemies of science: materialism, existentialism, constructivism
Authors: Masani P.R.
Published: April 2007

Considers that of the three ideologies – materialism, existentialism and constructivism – that materialism is the least scientific. Believes that it has caused the greatest harm by virtue of political control. Sees existentialism as more hostile to science but with its negative impact limited to theology and literature, whilst constructivism is considered anti‐scientific and may, via its influence on education, be the promoter of “the new slavery”. Discusses these assertions through consideration of scientific methodology evolving five principles which are applied to each of the three ideologies introduced.
Systems science, information systems theory, and informational macrodynamics: review
Authors: Lerner Vladimir S.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Science of systems requires a specific and constructive mathematical model and language, which describe jointly such systemic categories as adaptation, self‐organization, complexity, evolution, and bring the applied tools for building a system model for each specific object of a diverse nature. This formalism should be connected directly with a world of information and computer applications of systemic model, developed for a particular object. The considered information systems theory (IST) is aimed at building a bridge between the mathematical systemic formalism and information technologies to develop a constructive systemic model of revealing information regularities and specific information code for each object.

Design/methodology/approach

To fulfill this goal and the considered systems' definition, the IST joins two main concepts: unified information description of interacted flows, initiated by the sources of different nature, with common information language and systems modeling methodology, applied to distinct interdisciplinary objects; general system's information formalism for building the model, which allows expressing mathematically the system's regularities and main systemic mechanisms.

Findings

The formalism of informational macrodynamics (IMD), based of the minimax variational principle, reveals the system model's main layers: microlevel stochastics, macrolevel dynamics, hierarchical dynamic network (IN) of information structures, its minimal logic, and optimal code of communication language, generated by the IN hierarchy, dynamics, and geometry. The system's complex dynamics originate information geometry and evolution with the functional information mechanisms of ordering, cooperation, mutation, stability, diversity, adaptation, self‐organization, and the double helix's genetic code.

Practical implications

The developed IMD's theoretical computer‐based methodology and the software has been applied to such areas as technology, communications, computer science, intelligent processes, biology, economy, management, and other nonphysical and physical subjects.

Originality/value

The IMD's macrodynamics of uncertainties connect randomness and regularities, stochastic and determinism, reversibility and irreversibility, symmetry and asymmetry, stability and instability, structurization and stochastization, order and disorder, as a result of micro‐macrolevel's interactions for an open system, when the external environment can change the model's structure.
A systems study of lotus's leaf area
Authors: Barufaldi M. , Villacampa Y. , Sastre‐Vázquez P. , Verdú F.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

A systematic study of a lotus's leaf area is described through the genetic improvement of Lotus glaber, an induced tetraploid population known as, Leonel, was obtained. Initial assessment showed an increase in dry material in comparison with a diploid population. The aim was to evaluate whether the increased production of forage found in the tetraploid population Leonel was due to increased foliolae sizes.

Design/methodology/approach

Three populations were studied L. glaber: diploid cytotype: seeds from a naturalised population of La Pampa Deprimida (Azul, Argentina); Tetraploid cytotype C1 seeds from the Leonel population, and Lotus corniculatus (Italia) seeds from Italy. Analysis of variance was carried out with a random design using a single factor, for the variables of area, length and width of the central foliolae. Linear and non‐linear model families were determined to estimate the area of the central foliolae. The selection criteria applied were: the best R2, good efficiency, the greatest simplicity of the model and its stability.

Findings

The widths of the L. glaber diploid foliolae were less than those of L. corniculatus tetraploide and these were longer. The areas of the L. glaber foliolae were greater than those of the tetraploid L. corniculatus, and the areas of the foliolae of the diploid cytotype were slightly superior to the induced tetraploid cytotype L. Leoner. The best model was that which estimated the area of the central foliolae according to their width.

Practical implications

Non‐destructive estimates of foliar area were obtained for different species of the Lotus genus. The methodology chose provides a useful example of a systemic approach.

Originality/value

The variables studied are significant morphophysiological characteristics that can be used in programmes for the genetic improvement of L. glaber and L. corniculatus.
On some fuzzy maps
Authors: Gallego Lupiáñez Francisco
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To define some new kinds of fuzzy maps related with c‐zero dimensionality fuzzy, and various notions of fuzzy connectedness (due to Fatteh and Bassan, and Ajmal and Kohli, respectively), and obtain several properties about them.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows several properties of some new fuzzy maps.

Findings

The paper shows new results on fuzzy maps and various notios of fuzzy connectedness.

Research limitations/implications

Clearly, this paper is devoted to fuzzy topological spaces.

Practical implications

The main applications are in the mathematical field.

Originality/value

The paper shows original results on fuzzy topology.
Next generation grids for science and industry
Authors: Rudall Brian H. , Mann C.J.H.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to review current progress towards the development of the next generation grids for science and industry with particular reference to European endeavours. Reviews of projects and initiatives in biocybernetics, biometrics and innovative research and development are given.

Design/methodology/approach

A general review and survey of selected research and development topics.

Findings

Illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary natures of studies in cybernetics, systems, and management science with a view to further research and development activity.

Practical implications

The choice of reviews provides awareness of the current trends in these areas.

Originality/value

The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development.
Communications and forum
Authors: Lee Edward T. , Judy Lee Y.
Published: April 2007

Presents four approaches (relational, network, hierarchical, entity‐relationship) to medical database design with illustrative examples. Medical databases appear to be a fertile field for further study. In addition, the study of medical databases may contribute to finding more effective and more efficient ways to disseminate the latest scientific, engineering, and technical information in biomedical engineering.
Perfecting the Color Maker infinite shade card technique
Authors: Taskar Milind , Gadre Mukund
Published: April 2007

Color Maker is a computer simulation of mixing colorants to generate a resultant true colour on screen. It can be described as the infinite shade card. It has obvious advantages to offer the paint coatings and printing ink industries, which are defined. However, applications can be made for Color Maker in all colour‐using industries. An example is given of its development as an accurate tool in determining true colours on pharmaceutical tablet coatings. Here, it evaluates the colour on the tablet in a three‐dimensional rendering of the colour, and produces what can be termed a three‐dimensional shade card.
Analysis of bleaching processes in aluminium pigmented chlorinated rubber coatings under osmotic effect
Authors: Cayuela F. , Morcillo M.
Published: April 2007

Aluminium pigmented chlorinated rubber coatings, widely used for steel ship protection, can be bleached when exposed to total immersion conditions. A deep study on the development of the decolouration processes of these coatings, applied on rolled steel specimens exposed to total immersion conditions in aqueous solutions with different salinity, has been carried out. The relationship between external salinity and contamination by sodium chloride of the steel/coating interface in the bleaching processes has been analysed. Besides, the influence of the osmotic processes in the coating bleaching has been established. Periodic visual inspections of the coating films, together with a deep analysis of the coating microstructure, by means of optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy provided with microsonde analysis, were used. The bleaching processes of the coatings mainly depend on the salinity of the external solution, while the influence of the steel/coating interface contamination is not relevant.
Novel synthesis of thiazole disperse dye derivatives
Authors: Mahmoud Elkholy Yehya , Helmy Helal Maher , wahba Erian Ayman
Published: April 2007

Describes the synthesis and testing of a group of dyes, derived from heterocyclic compounds containing thiazole ring systems. Gives a comparative analysis of the dyes’ washing, perspiration and rubbing fastness when applied to synthetic fabrics.
Guidelines for food packaging and inserts printing inks for direct food contact
Authors: Gettis Michael F.
Published: April 2007

Explains the guidelines which exist for food packaging and inserts printing inks used in direct food contact. Provides a brief review of the use of promotion in packaging and goes on to look at the three methods of manufacturing the in‐packs. Assesses the present situation in European food packaging legislation and provides a checklist for the food contact printer. Also looks at the viability of wide web flexible packaging and UV inks and coatings.
Freeze‐thaw stability of epoxy resin emulsions
Authors: Wegmann Alex
Published: April 2007

Epoxy resin emulsions are used in water‐based coatings for surface protection of concrete and metal. An unfortunate drawback for most emulsions is their poor freeze‐thaw stability. Epoxy emulsions are indeed unstable below 0°C, ‐5°C or ‐10°C, depending on the type of resin. In this study, other factors capable of influencing the freeze‐thaw behaviour were investigated: e.g. solids content, amount and type of emulsifiers, solvents, protective colloids. Discusses methods for testing the quality of thawed emulsions as well as the physics involved in their destabilization. Freeze‐thaw performance can be improved by different means but mostly not without sacrificing resistance properties of the coating. Therefore, avoiding temperatures below 0°C is still the best advice.
Simultaneous grafting and dyeing of loomstate cotton fabric using potassium permanganate citric acid methacrylic acid dye system
Authors: Abdel‐Hafiz S.A. , El‐Sisi F.F. , Helmy M. , Hebeish A.
Published: April 2007

Samples of loomstate cotton fabric were first treated with aqueous potassium permanganate solution at different concentrations in the presence of a non‐ionic wetting agent. The samples were then washed and treated using solutions containing methacrylic acid, wetting agent and acid or basic dye along with citric acid of different concentrations at different temperatures for different times. The critical properties of the fabric such as graft yield (expressed as carboxyl content m.eq/100g cellulose), colour strength before and after soaping and percentage loss in colour strength due to soaping were found to depend on the concentrations of KMnO4, citric acid and methacrylic acid as well as duration of the treatment. Based on the results obtained, treating formulations consisting of KMnO4(0.1g/l), citric acid (0.1g/l), methacrylic acid (50 per cent), dye (1 per cent) and wetting agent (2g/l) was considered appropriate for concurrent grafting and dyeing of the said fabrics provided that the treatment was carried out at 90°C for 60 minutes.
The role of hot‐melt adhesives in sift‐proof sealing
Authors: Frankling P.G.
Published: April 2007

High speed cartoning offers a convenient way to pack a wide range of products. Sift‐proof sealing is a technique which can provide major savings in energy and raw materials, thus reducing both cost and demands on resources. PVA has been the traditional adhesive used, but hot‐melt adhesives have a number of advantages, not least of which is speed. This is becoming increasingly important as packers demand greater production speeds and so hot‐melt adhesives are gradually supplanting PVA. Both elements of the process, adhesive and application equipment, will have to be skilfully engineered in order to cope with the added stresses placed on them by these high speeds. An exciting new development of the sift‐proof technique has recently been unveiled, whereby a treated paper membrane is bonded to the inside of the carton at each end. Not only does this provide a means of applying a complete “circuit” of hot melt to give a totally air‐tight pack but its barrier properties allow the carton to be used for perishable products. Further developments of the sift‐proof technique in the future can be expected.
Polyurethane dispersions for adhesive applications
Authors: Moss Michelle
Published: April 2007

Discusses the manufacture of polyurethane dispersions. States that excellent properties (including good early green strength, high ultimate bond strength, good open time, good adhesion to a variety of substrates, high heat resistance, low heat activation temperature, ability to be blended with other water based polymers and additives) can be obtained with lower environmental impact than for solvent‐based adhesives. Discusses how price/performance can be improved through the addition of less expensive resins. Outlines major applications for polyurethane dispersions in automotive, furniture and footwear industries.
Moisture‐curing reactive polyurethane hot‐melt adhesives
Authors: Waites Paul
Published: April 2007

Describes the formulation of a hot‐melt polyurethane reactive (HMPUR) adhesive that is cured by moisture. Looks at the advantages of hot‐melt adhesives in general and reactive ones in particular. Further examines the properties of strength, resistance and flexibility for moisture curing reactive PUR hot melts and considerations in their use such as moisture availability, application equipment and thermal degradation. Finally, gives examples of real applications for HMPUR adhesives.
Technological development of water‐based packaging inks for gravure printing
Authors: Hamer Ing A.H.
Published: April 2007

In Graz, Austria, the European Rotogravure Association (ERA) held a conference where several companies presented new developments in the printing industry including the latest developments in the field of water‐based ink systems. This paper discusses water‐based inks for gravure printing.
Customer retention is not enough
Authors: Coyles Stephanie , Gokey Timothy C.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Every company knows that it costs far less to hold on to a customer than to acquire a new one. That is why customer retention has become the Holy Grail in industries from airlines to wireless. Yet defecting customers are far less of a problem than customers who change their buying patterns. Today's typical metrics of customer satisfaction and defection do not tell a company how susceptible its customers are to changing their spending patterns. This article seeks to investigate this problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation was carried out through a two‐year study of the attitudes of 1,200 households toward companies in 16 industries.

Findings

McKinsey found that focusing on smaller changes in customer spending can have as much as ten times more value than concentrating on defections alone.

Originality/value

This is important for those companies that wish to retain their customers.
From computer‐aided manufacturing to Japanese newspapers: evolution of the AAU/ARL Japan Journal Access Project
Authors: Jackson Mary E.
Published: April 2007

The AAU/ARL (Association of American Universities/Association of Research Libraries) Japan Journal Access Project seeks to expand access to research materials published in Japan, and to coordinate collection development activities of Japanese‐language material held by North American research libraries. Established in 1994, the focus of the Japan Project has evolved from providing access to scientific and technical serials published in Japan to providing access to Japanese language materials held by Japanese and North American libraries. The Union List of Japanese Serials and Newspapers and the Association of National University Libraries (ANUL) and Waseda document‐delivery projects have emerged as key activities. Collaborative collection development remains an important, but unrealized, goal. Suggestions for future developments are made.
Digital talking book standards developed by NLS and partners under NISO auspices
Authors: Cookson John , Moodie Michael , Rasmussen Lloyd
Published: April 2007

The functionality, compatibility, and longevity planned for future digital talking books require clear, exact definitions of component format and content. NLS will achieve this by working with a diverse team of experts to establish an applicable standard. This article outlines the plan, describes progress, and indicates what further work is necessary to complete the standard.
Using digital talking books in schools: RFB&D’s top project
Authors: Noble Steve
Published: April 2007

Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D) is a national non‐profit organization that provides educational and professional books in accessible media formats to people with print disabilities. The principal aim of RFB&D’s TOP project is to experiment with using digital talking books (DTBs) in an educational setting, while focusing particular attention on the ability to provide DTBs over computer networks. The first in‐class testing cycle began with the Fall 1999 semester.
Worldwide training and technical support for DAISY
Authors: Kerscher George
Published: April 2007

How can a worldwide training and technical support program be implemented to support the DAISY standard? The key to a successful implementation plan lies with building expertise throughout the consortium. This article explores the DAISY “Train the Trainers” courses, regional training centers, technical conferences, and the extensive technical support helpdesk the DAISY Consortium maintains. These activities are all intended to develop experts within every organization in the DAISY Consortium.
The logic of inference
Authors: Janes Joseph
Published: April 2007

This column continues a series on topics in research methodology, statistics and data analysis techniques for the library and information sciences. It discusses the logic implicit in statistical inference, which underlies many tests and procedures used in quantitative scientific inquiry.
Back in the USA: the “Cybrarian” comes home
Authors: Boone Morell D.
Published: April 2007

After examining recent developments in library architecture in major European and US institutions, the author examines the creation of a “cybrary” on a new university central campus in San Diego, California, USA. He argues that smaller universities that are under tight budget and resource constraints need to prioritize their services, so that they can best determine where technology will have the optimum effect. To decide their priorities, planners need to examine what kind of facility they have and what kind of clientele they wish to serve. National University in San Diego has only recently developed a centralized campus structure; for 30 years it has had a unique program of catering to students at remote locations. The planners decided that the technology needed to enhance their off‐site delivery system, while also providing adequate on‐campus resources. The National University experience demonstrates that the cybrary model is not restricted to large academic or national libraries with large budgets and staffing resources. Establishing priorities enables planners of small library systems to stay on the cutting edge of technological integration.
The physical dimension of information space
Authors: Seadle Michael
Published: April 2007

One of the unintended effects of new information technology has been the obsolescence of the buildings housing the technology. Information technology can be building‐independent, but our buildings are not technology‐independent. As voluntary‐use facilities, libraries will grow emptier unless they create an ambience where the physical space matches the cultural space of modern technology.
Copyright in the networked world: new rules for images
Authors: Seadle Michael
Published: April 2007

Two recent court cases have redefined how images may be used on the Internet without copyright infringement. The Bridgeman case is based explicitly on British as well as US law. Kelly v. Arriba rested on the definition of fair use in the US copyright law, and therefore has more limited (or perhaps merely more complex) implications. Before these cases, essentially all photographs since 1923 had the presumption of copyright protection. Now exact copies of public domain art, and perhaps other images that lack originality, are in the public domain. And thumbnail copies of protected images can be regarded under at least some circumstances as being safely within the US fair use guidelines.
Web technology in public libraries: findings from research
Authors: Prabha Chandra , Irwin Raymond
Published: April 2007

Public libraries are an integral part of North American communities. With the wide perception that all information people want is freely available, questions arise about the ways in which public libraries are using Web technology. This article assesses public library accessibility via the Web based on a simple random sample of 189 entries coded as “public library type” in the American Library Directory. An e‐mail survey to the heads of public libraries in Winter 2002 augmented the data we collected from an examination of Web sites of the sampled libraries.
Using XSLT to manipulate MARC metadata
Authors: Keith Corey
Published: April 2007

This paper describes the MARCXML architecture implemented at the Library of Congress. It gives an overview of the component pieces of the architecture, including the MARCXML schema and the MARCXML toolkit, while giving a brief tutorial on their use. Several different applications of the architecture and tools are discussed to illustrate the features of the toolkit being developed thus far. Nearly any metadata format can take advantage of the features of the toolkit, and the process of the toolkit enabling a new format is discussed. Finally, this paper intends to foster new ideas with regards to the transformation of descriptive metadata, especially using XML tools. In this paper the following conventions will be used: MARC21 will refer to MARC 21 records in the ISO 2709 record structure used today; MARCXML will refer to MARC 21 records in an XML structure.
Saskatchewan digital library collections ‐ enhancing access to the province’s information
Authors: Fichter Darlene
Published: April 2007

Saskatchewan school, special, public and academic libraries have created digital collections to serve their user communities better. The digital projects cover a wide range of topics from sports history to First Nations art and artifacts. While some of the projects are short‐term, other projects span a number of years and have a number of phases. The various digital collections and some of the challenges faced by the early digital project initiatives are described in this article.
Preventing or fixing a problem: a marketing manager’s dilemma revisited
Authors: Choong Peggy
Published: April 2007

Delivering satisfaction to customers has become the accepted strategy to success and survival in today’s competitive business environment. However, managers charged with the task of nurturing customer satisfaction are often required to allocate their limited funds across an array of initiatives intended to ensure the delivery of the right amount and types of services to improve satisfaction among their customers. This requires the ability to locate areas that yield the greatest response per unit of investment. This paper shows that the impact of attribute performance on satisfaction is non‐symmetric. Results also indicate that marketing managers need to focus their efforts on reducing deficiencies because their impacts on satisfaction are higher. Empirical evidence is obtained for both the industrial and consumer market.
Adapting geodemographic information to army recruiting: the case of identifying and enlisting Private Ryan
Authors: Faulds David J. , Gohmann Stephan F.
Published: April 2007

The primary objective of this research was to develop a segmentation model for the United States Army Recruiting Command Headquarters (USAREC), located at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The segmentation model was based on the MicroVision geodemographic system, developed by National Decisions Systems. Cluster analysis was used to develop the segmentation model. The research resulted in identifying 18 unique segments, or clusters, that were based on demographic and socioeconomic variables. The second objective of the research was to predict contract production within each market segment. The results of this portion of the analysis have allowed USAREC to more effectively establish and evaluate contract production goals across the command structure. The methodology employed in the research has wide applications to both the military and other service organizations that use geodemographic systems in their marketing programs.
An option‐based approach for pricing perishable services assets
Authors: Howard Finch J. , Becherer Richard C. , Casavant Richard
Published: April 2007

The concept of option pricing is used to develop an alternative model for pricing services that have a fixed availability and expiration. The binomial option pricing model and abandonment theory are financial models used to demonstrate that the option to cut price contributes positively to a service’s expected profitability. Pricing of hotel rooms is used to demonstrate in a marketing context the use of this option model approach. Airline seats, events, and vacation house rentals are some of the many other alternative applications among consumer services, as broadcast time is a similar example among industrial services.
NORDINFO (Nordic Council for Scientific Information): financing international development without bureaucracy
Authors: Klara Hannesdóttir Sigrún
Published: April 2007

NORDINFO (The Nordic Council for Scientific Information) was founded in 1977 after a long tradition of Nordic cooperation within the research library field. The Council is responsible for coordinating Nordic cooperative initiatives that can facilitate access to scientific information. Prior to that, Nordic countries developed a variety of cooperative forms: political, economic, cultural and scientific. During its 20 years of operation, NORDINFO has financed many experimental projects and financially supported many conferences, seminars and smaller projects with the general aim that these projects should have benefit beyond each individual country. Projects included an interface, which was to serve as a tool to search databases in different countries and structured in different languages. NORDINFO also financed Centres of Excellence where Nordic expertise could be developed. NORDINFO operates on a budget provided by the Nordic Council of Ministers and is given a three‐year contract based on strategy which must be accepted by the board, consisting of one member from each of the five countries that finance Nordic cooperation.
Managing organizational health and performance in junior colleges
Authors: Ho Janice T.S.
Published: April 2007

Organizational Health (OH) is a concept that has been developed to reflect the effectiveness of an organization in various environments and how the organization reacts to “changes in circumstances”. The purpose of this study is two‐fold. First, it is to determine whether a linear relationship exists between stress and each of the following variables: job satisfaction, wellbeing, and performance. Second, it seeks to determine if OH mediates these relationships. Results of the study highlighted the relationship between stress and wellbeing. Although OH did not mediate any of the three relationships mentioned above, OH was found to have a direct relationship with job satisfaction, wellbeing and college performance. Specifically, the study emphasized the importance of a healthy management environment for job satisfaction and teacher wellbeing (less wornout).
A theory of self‐learning in a networked human and IT environment: implications for education reforms
Authors: Mo Ching Mok Magdalena , Cheong Cheng Yin
Published: April 2007

Aims to develop a theoretical model for understanding and enhancing effective self‐learning in a networked human and information technology (IT) environment. Recent educational reforms in different parts of the world emphasize that independent self‐learning throughout the life span is a sine qua non of education. Parallel to this is the development that the Internet and information technology have changed the modes of teaching and learning fundamentally and created unlimited opportunities for learning. There is an urgent need to develop a theory or model that can be used to deepen the understanding of the nature and process of self‐learning and facilitate students becoming highly motivated and effective self‐learners with the support of a networked human and IT environment. The implications drawn from the theory can contribute to the paradigm shift of education in current worldwide education reforms.