bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental determination of interfacial-layer thickness from polarization-voltage hysteresis loops in Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.6)O3 thin films
Authors: Jiang A. Q. , Wang C. , Cheng B. L. , Chen Z. H.
Published: May 2005

Interfacial layers near top and bottom electrodes with low resistivity in Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.6)O3 (PZT) thin film are identified and modeled through frequency-dependent polarization-voltage (P-V) hysteresis loops at frequencies below 20kHz. Actual voltage drops, as well as built-in imprint voltage across the intrinsic ferroelectric layer, are found to be frequency dependent, as shown from the linear voltage shift of P-V hysteresis loops against applied external voltage at different frequencies with respect to one referenced hysteresis loop. Calculated interfacial-layer thickness is about 32±2nm for an Ir∕IrO2∕PZT∕Pt∕SiO2∕Si capacitor with a PZT film thickness of 100nm, in good agreement with the resistive measurements by Chu et al. [Appl. Phys. Lett. 81, 5204 (2002)].
Structural analysis and reduction of in-grown stacking faults in 4H–SiC epilayers
Authors: Izumi S. , Tsuchida H. , Kamata I. , Tawara T.
Published: May 2005

We investigated the structure of in-grown stacking faults in the 4H–SiC(0001) epilayers. The in-grown stacking faults nucleate near the substrate/epilayer interface and expand the area with increasing epilayer thickness in a triangular shape. From transmission electron microscope observation, the formation of 1c of 8H polytype was confirmed in the in-grown stacking fault area. We also investigated the dependence of in-grown stacking fault density on the epitaxial growth rate, growth temperature, and substrate surface preparation.
Real structure of the CoSi2∕Si(001) interface studied by dedicated aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Falke Meiken , Falke Uwe , Bleloch Andrew , Teichert Steffen , Beddies G. , Hinneberg H.-J.
Published: May 2005

The interface structure of epitaxial cobalt disilicide thin films buried in (001) silicon was studied by dedicated aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. Two different CoSi2∕Si interface structures, one representing a (2×1) reconstruction containing sevenfold coordinated Co and the other, a (1×1) structure containing eightfold coordinated Co, were unequivocally identified. The reconstructed sevenfold interface structure was observed more frequently than the (1×1) eightfold interface, which confirms first-principles total-energy calculations. Further, the atomic arrangement found in the eightfold interface reveals an atomic displacement, which is due to relaxation and has been predicted theoretically as well. Complex defect structures at interface domain boundaries are described.
High-quality superconducting Josephson junctions on LiNbO3 electro-optical crystals
Authors: Parlato L. , Pepe G. P. , Latempa R. , D’Acunto P. , Peluso G. , Barone A. , Granata C. , Russo M.
Published: May 2005

The attainment of high-quality Josephson junctions on electro-optical substrates constitutes a key step toward the fabrication of functional superconducting opto-electronics. We report on the fabrication of high-quality all-refractory niobium superconducting tunnel junctions deposited on X-cut LiNbO3 single crystals. A high quality factor Vm=0.7ΔIgR2mV (where ΔIg is the current jump at the sum gap voltage and R2mV the static resistance at V=2mV) up to 61 mV has been measured at T=4.2K. The very low contribution of subgap leakage currents is demonstrated by the BCS-like quasiparticle current measured at V=0.1mV down to T=1.9K.
Control of conduction type in Al- and N-codoped ZnO thin films
Authors: Yuan G. D. , Ye Z. Z. , Zhu L. P. , Qian Q. , Zhao B. H. , Fan R. X. , Perkins Craig L. , Zhang S. B.
Published: May 2005

p -type ZnO thin films have been fabricated by an Al- and N-codoping technique at the growth temperature between 380 and 480 °C, as identified by the Hall measurement. At lower and higher temperatures, however, the samples are n type. The best p-type sample shows a resistivity and hole concentration of 24.5 Ω cm and 7.48×1017cm−3 at room temperature, respectively. Spread resistance depth profile further shows the transition from n-type substrate to p-type ZnO through a clearly defined depletion region. Photoluminescence spectra also show low signal in deep level transition, indicating a low density of native defects.
Coherent coupling of two-dimensional arrays of defect cavities in photonic crystal vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers
Authors: Raftery James J. , Danner Aaron J. , Lee Jason C. , Choquette Kent D.
Published: May 2005

An approach for creating two-dimensional arrays of coherently coupled vertically emitting laser cavities is demonstrated. This is achieved by creating a 2×2 array of defect cavities within the top distributed Bragg reflector of a photonic crystal vertical cavity surface-emitting laser. The optical coupling occurs laterally through coupling regions defined between the defect cavities. Modifying the index within the coupling regions, accomplished by varying the hole parameters of the photonic crystal in those regions, leads to out-of-phase coherent coupling observed in the far field. Agreement is found between the simulated and observed out-of-phase far fields.
Phase diagram of ultrathin Pb(Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3 films under strain
Authors: Wu Zhongqing , Huang Ningdong , Wu Jian , Duan Wenhui , Gu Bing-Lin
Published: May 2005

Using a first-principles-based approach, we investigate the strain–temperature phase diagram of Pb(Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3 ultrathin film without surface charge screening. We find that the compressive strain dramatically affects the sequence of phase transitions, and observe a rich variety of ferroelectric phases, including a monoclinic phase and a stripe domain forbidden in the bulk crystal. The vortex stripe structure leads to an unusual characteristic of the phase diagram.
Critical state model in superconducting parallelepipeds
Authors: Badía-Majós A. , López C.
Published: May 2005

Magnetic-flux penetration is theoretically evaluated for superconducting samples of cuboid shape in the critical state. Our variational statement in terms of the electric current density enables a practical algorithm which can efficiently tackle the fully three-dimensional problem. We have obtained the electric- and magnetic-field distributions within the sample. Exotic features of E⃗, inherent to the three-dimensional nature of the problem, are reported. We show that magnetic hysteresis is easily evaluated within this framework.
Molecular constituents of neuronal AMPA receptors
Authors: Fukata Yuko , Tzingounis Anastassios V. , Trinidad Jonathan C. , Fukata Masaki , Burlingame Alma L. , Nicoll Roger A. , Bredt David S.
Published: May 2005

Dynamic regulation of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) underlies aspects of synaptic plasticity. Although numerous AMPAR-interacting proteins have been identified, their quantitative and relative contributions to native AMPAR complexes remain unclear. Here, we quantitated protein interactions with neuronal AMPARs by immunoprecipitation from brain extracts. We found that stargazin-like transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins (TARPs) copurified with neuronal AMPARs, but we found negligible binding to GRIP, PICK1, NSF, or SAP-97. To facilitate purification of neuronal AMPAR complexes, we generated a transgenic mouse expressing an epitope-tagged GluR2 subunit of AMPARs. Taking advantage of this powerful new tool, we isolated two populations of GluR2 containing AMPARs: an immature complex with the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone immunoglobulin-binding protein and a mature complex containing GluR1, TARPs, and PSD-95. These studies establish TARPs as the auxiliary components of neuronal AMPARs.
Tight junctions in Schwann cells of peripheral myelinated axons
Authors: Miyamoto Tatsuo , Morita Kazumasa , Takemoto Daisuke , Takeuchi Kosei , Kitano Yuka , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Nakayama Kiyomi , Okamura Yasushi , Sasaki Hiroyuki , Miyachi Yoshiki , Furuse Mikio , Tsukita Shoichiro
Published: May 2005

Tight junction (TJ)–like structures have been reported in Schwann cells, but their molecular composition and physiological function remain elusive. We found that claudin-19, a novel member of the claudin family (TJ adhesion molecules in epithelia), constituted these structures. Claudin-19–deficient mice were generated, and they exhibited behavioral abnormalities that could be attributed to peripheral nervous system deficits. Electrophysiological analyses showed that the claudin-19 deficiency affected the nerve conduction of peripheral myelinated fibers. Interestingly, the overall morphology of Schwann cells lacking claudin-19 expression appeared to be normal not only in the internodal region but also at the node of Ranvier, except that TJs completely disappeared, at least from the outer/inner mesaxons. These findings have indicated that, similar to epithelial cells, Schwann cells also bear claudin-based TJs, and they have also suggested that these TJs are not involved in the polarized morphogenesis but are involved in the electrophysiological “sealing” function of Schwann cells.
Learning distributed leadership: part 1
Authors: Ross Lisa , Rix Mike , Gold Jeff
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To explore the requirements for learning distributed leadership. drawing on cultural historical activity theory (CHAT).

Design/methodology/approach

The background to recent leadership research that distinguishes between leading as a quality of one person, the appointed leader, and leadership as a collective phenomenon, usually referred to as distributed leadership (DL), is provided. Principles for a programme of learning for DL are presented.

Findings

Prominence is given to the mediation of action through social and cultural tools in the production of an object and leadership as influence unfolds in a reciprocal process around the use of tools. As the unit of analysis changes from individual subjects carrying out actions at a micro level to the activity system, leadership occurs through the exertion of influence that occurs not only in reciprocal interdependence required for the performance of work but also through the mediation of tools, rules, the community and division of labour.

Practical implications

A programme of learning for practitioners is developed.

Originality/value

There are few accounts of how DL is experienced and even fewer which explain how DL can be practised.
Employee ownership + accountability=competitive advantage: Precor drives organizational change
Authors: Takaki Lynn
Published: May 2005

Purpose

It is well recognized that fast‐growing companies can outpace their systems and infrastructure. Similarly, rapidly growing companies can outgrow their corporate culture. This case study aims to address training that replaces an established yet outgrown corporate culture with a dynamic culture suitable for the growing organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Global fitness equipment leader Precor has achieved cultural change through a strategy founded in increasing – and rewarding – personal accountability for results. Through training, Precor established direct connections between each employee and the corporation's financial performance. A system of ongoing communications and rewards supports the change over time. The process included institutionalized and depth delivery of company‐wide communications, performance management processes, and reward‐and‐recognition programs.

Findings

Through training, an organization can successfully transition individuals and departments to embrace a culture of personal ownership, accountability and reward. Financial benefits also accrue: since Precor committed to organizational change, corporate revenues have increased by more than 50 percent, and profitability is up more than 200 percent.

Practical implications

Management can institutionalize a culture of personal ownership and accountability that generates superior financial results.

Originality/value

Human resources and training executives interested in significantly increasing their organization's business results can gain insight into building employee accountability and individual links and ownership of their company's results.
The post‐war problems of continental libraries
Authors: Danilewicz Maria
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to look at the post‐war problems of continental libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents the author's own experiences and memories of lost literature in the war years.

Findings

In many countries the whole network of libraries was built up afresh – almost from nothing – with shortage of paper, of books, of library equipment, of building accommodation and library staff.

Originality/value

The author stresses the importance of the resumption of the activities of international librarian organizations to facilitate the exchange of ideas, the discussion of various questions, and the re‐establishment of pre‐war services such as interlibrary loans, photographic services, exchange of publications, etc.
The library rehabilitation programme of the American Library Association
Authors: Miller Lydenberg Harry
Published: May 2005

Purpose

At the very outbreak of the war official permission was sought to import books and periodicals from war areas. This article seeks to look at the problems that arose for libraries trying to succeed in getting books from abroad and their own books overseas in wartime conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

A campaign was launched by the Conference of College and University Librarians of Southern California. Its members were responsible for the collecting and storing of books given in their locality.

Findings

With the help of libraries and associations world‐wide, adults and children alike were able to carry on reading.

Originality/value

The article has historical value.
A state secret – dissertations in the German Democratic Republic
Authors: Mertens Lothar
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Since the early 1970s the Communist regime in the German Democratic Republic classified thousands of doctoral dissertations as confidential, thus blocking the dissemination of research in the various disciplines of science. More than 6,800 titles of dissertations have not been listed in the national bibliographies. This article seeks to give a first overview of the different fields of restricted research and the topics which have been treated as state secrets. The study also aims to show the involvement of universities and colleges in the classification and segregation of theses into special depots and non‐public reading rooms.

Design/methodology/approach

The author of this article analysed which theses were classified by the Socialist Unity Party, the ruling Communist party in the GDR, and a full bibliography giving all the information of the titles and the names of the authors involved was published in 1994.

Findings

Despite the centralist directives from the Ministry for University and Technical College Education regarding the classification of dissertations, actual classification of doctoral theses has been handled very differently by the various institutions.

Originality/value

Dealing with this legacy, that is, returning the secret dissertations into the general stocks and listing them in the bibliographies and general catalogues, took several years. This article was able to highlight those events through its original source.
Libraries in continental Europe: the 40s and the 90s
Authors: Tax Choldin Marianna
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Part of the “JDoc at 60” series, this paper aims to discuss, evaluate and compare writings on the state of libraries in Continental Europe in the 1940s and the 1990s.

Design/methodology/approach

Four papers published in Journal of Documentation, three from 1945 and one from 1994, are analysed and compared, and their significance discussed.

Findings

Finds that there are similarities and differences between the situation facing European libraries at the end of the 1939‐1945 war, and after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Originality/value

Both historical and current policy perspectives are included.
“Conversational” information systems
Authors: Ford Nigel
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review recent developments in educational informatics relating to the provision by information systems of pedagogical support to web‐based learners, and to propose further investigation of the feasibility and potential value of web‐based “conversational” information systems to complement adaptive hypermedia and information retrieval systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The potential of Pask's conversation theory is considered as a potentially useful framework for the development of information systems capable of providing pedagogical support for web‐based learners, complementary to that provided by existing computer‐assisted learning and adaptive hypermedia systems. The potential role and application of entailment meshes are reviewed in relation to other forms of knowledge representation including classifications, semantic networks, ontologies and representations based on knowledge space theory.

Findings

Concludes that conversation theory could be a useful framework to support the development of web‐based “conversational” information that would complement aspects of computer‐assisted learning, adaptive hypermedia and information retrieval systems. The entailment mesh knowledge representation associated with conversation theory provides the potential for providing particularly rich pedagogical support by virtue of its properties of cyclicity, consistency and connectivity, designed to support deep and enduring levels of understanding.

Research limitations/implications

Although based on a considerable body of theoretical and empirical work relating to conversation theory, the paper remains speculative in that the gap is still great between, on the one hand, what has so far been achieved and, on the other, the practical realisation of its potential to enhance web‐based learning. Much work remains to be done in terms of exploring the extent to which procedures developed and benefits found in relatively small‐scale experimental contexts can effectively be scaled to yield enhanced support for “real world” learning‐related information behaviour.

Originality/value

The ideas of Pask, discussed in this paper, are capable of guiding the structuring of information according to parameters designed to facilitate deep and enduring understanding via interactive “conversational” engagement between the conceptual structures of information source authors and learners. If one can scale Pask's work to “real world” learning‐related information behaviour, one can increase the range of web‐based information systems and services capable of providing pedagogical support to web‐based learners.
The public library as a meeting‐place in a multicultural and digital context
Authors: Audunson Ragnar
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to develop an improved conceptual framework for researching and discussing the public library's role as a meeting‐place in a multicultural and digital society.

Design/methodology/approach

The development of today's Western societies from societies dominated by one cultural canon, and where the role of the public library is to give the public access to that canon, into societies where a multitude of cultural expressions and values are tolerated and appraised, is summarized. This development is linked to the digital revolution, which opens up for increased communication but might increase a development where people live in segregated cultural niches without being exposed to other values and interests. The general challenge of creating meeting‐places with a potential of promoting that degree of cross‐cultural communication which a community presupposes is presented. Theory and research on meeting‐places and arenas for community communication are presented.

Findings

The concepts of high‐intensive versus low‐intensive meeting‐places are developed. High‐intensive meeting‐places are those arenas where people invest their primary engagement, whereas low‐intensive meeting‐places are arenas where one is exposed to the values and interests of others. The role of low‐intensive meeting‐places in promoting tolerance and community is discussed, and the public library's potential as a low‐intensive meeting‐place is analyzed.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical research based on the concept of high‐intensive and low intensive meeting‐places should be undertaken.

Practical implications

The concept of low‐intensive meeting‐places has practical consequences for public librarianship. Some of these are specified in the paper.

Originality/value

The paper develops a new concept that might prove fruitful for research as well as for practical librarianship.
Library subject guides: a content management case study at the Open University, UK
Authors: Wales Tim
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To share the experiences and challenges faced by the Open University Library (OUL) in developing a content management (CM) system for its subject guides.

Design/methodology/approach

A summary of multi‐format subject guide production at the OUL is provided to justify the decision to develop a new system for their production using a commercial CM system. A detailed consideration of the design and implementation stages is given before a critical review of the project outcome.

Findings

Highlights the complex design and implementation aspects to the project, in part due to the nature of subject guide content itself, and examines the reasons for the CM system delivered not being adopted. Emphasises the importance of CM to future OU applications.

Practical implications

Of interest not only to other academic libraries but to any organisation seeking to organise and publish original material for different audiences in a variety of formats from a single data source.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to document a systematic approach to library subject guide production using a CM system and the associated information management challenges and realities of multi‐format publishing in an academic publishing context.
Peculiarities of the digital divide in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Mutula Stephen M.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Seeks to argue that the peculiarities of sub‐Saharan Africa, in terms of its socio‐cultural diversity, low economic development, linguistic factors, HIV/AIDS pandemic, gender discrimination, low ICT awareness and so on, demand a new model of addressing the digital divide.

Design/methodology/approach

Paper largely based on literature survey and an assessment of the existing models of addressing global digital divide.

Findings

Sub‐Saharan Africa has certain peculiarities in high levels of poverty, high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, repressive regimes, civil wars, diversity of cultural and linguistic factors, gender discrimination, etc. that require new models for bridging the digital divide and that recognise the uniqueness of the sub‐continent.

Research limitations/implications

More research is needed to determine new models of bridging the digital divide that can help sub‐Saharan Africa to leapfrog into the information age.

Practical implications

More attention is needed to alleviate poverty and meet people's basic needs for livelihood if attempts to integrate ICT into their lives are to be effective.

Originality/value

Sub‐Saharan Africa has largely relied on models of the developed countries to bridge the digital divide without paying close attention to how various technologies can effectively be integrated in the lives of the people to alleviate poverty and consequently stimulate ICT uptake. This paper provides some solutions.
Factors affecting the full use of library and information management systems by library personnel
Authors: Skretas Georgios
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To provide a general list of factors that affects and determines the full use of library information management systems (LIMS) by library staff.

Design/methodology/approach

The factors, which were identified mainly during participation in the implementation of automation projects in Greece, are listed and briefly analysed in categories relevant to the system aspect and to the library aspect.

Findings

A balanced coverage of all factors should guide towards a full use of an LIMS. Certainly, in cases where detailed documentation and so on are needed, this approach is not enough, but as a starting‐point it might be useful.

Originality/value

The list of factors could be used as a checklist by anyone wishing to investigate or control the reasons for the full use, or not, of an LIMS in a specific library as well as the existing conditions prior to installing an LIMS.
Serials Solutions and LinkFinderPlus at the University of Wales Swansea
Authors: Brown Andrew , Smyth Neil
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To provide practical information on two electronic journal‐related products implemented in Library and Information Services at University of Wales Swansea.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview is provided of the evaluation of electronic journal management products undertaken and subsequent implementation.

Findings

Serials Solutions was evaluated as the best product to assist in the management of electronic journals at Swansea University with LinkFinderPlus, an OpenURL resolver, being used to connect to the full‐text journal articles from the library catalogue, citations, abstracts or other journal articles.

Practical implications

Provides assistance to institutions in exploring a number of technical issues relating to electronic journal management systems and a process for evaluating and selecting a system.

Originality/value

Both systems are still relatively new technology and many institutions will be considering the purchase of both types of system.
Migration of data from one library management system to another:a case study in India
Authors: Matoria Ram Kumar , Upadhyay P.K.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To share the experiences gained during the migration of library data from one library management system (LibSys™) to another (e‐Granthalaya™).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the step‐by‐step approach taken to migrate the existing library data to the new software. The paper also discusses the peculiarities of the source software from which data were converted and the practical approach adopted in solving the problems faced during the conversion.

Findings

During the process of the conversion of the library data from one software to another many lessons have been learned. These lessons and experiences will be useful for us in the future to import/export the data from other software such as MINISIS, CDS/ISIS, TECHLIB PLUS, etc. being used in Indian libraries. Moreover, the switch over from one software to another is also useful for the libraries as the existing data are refined and cleaned during the conversion process.

Originality/value

The authors share the lessons learned during the conversion process and hope that these will be useful to others in migration of data.
Assembly in aerospace features at IEE seminar
Authors: Rooks Brian
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To review presentations on assembly and joining given at a seminar, “The changing face of robotics: inside and outside the factory”, organised by the UK Institution of Electrical Engineers.

Design/methodology/approach

Details are given of three presentations. The first is by Dr Phil Webb of the University of Nottingham, who described a project to develop a flexible robotic cell capable of riveting and assembling aero‐structure components, in which a new method of “simulation‐based control” evolved. In the second, Pearl Agjakwa of Nottingham University and Craig Johnson of Rolls Royce talked about shape metal deposition, a process by which layers of weld are deposited by robot to form complex aerospace components with minimal tooling and short lead times. The final presentation was by Dr Wolfgang Kölbl of Meta Vision Systems on laser vision robot guidance. Applications in automotive and a new cross vision sensor were described, the latter being applicable to hole location such as for drilling and riveting.

Findings

Robotics inside the factory is extending into new areas of assembly and fastening and is now finding applications in the aerospace industry and not just in automotive.

Originality/value

Provides a review of some new assembly‐related process developments in robotics.
Hose production machines bring savings for US manufacturer
Authors: Rooks Brian
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The paper describes the operation of two hose maufacturing machines.

Design/methodology/approach

The systems use servo drives (Rexroth) and ultrasonic cutting heads.

Findings

System reduces costs and gives greater flexibility with an expected payback time of 2‐3 years.

Originality/value

A useful source of information for those involved in special purpose machinery manufacturing.
Using piezoelectric technology to improve servo gripper performance in mini‐ and microassembly
Authors: Karjalainen Ilpo , Sandelin Teemu , Heikkilä Riku , Tuokko Reijo
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to research the possibilities of using piezoelectric technology to improve accuracy and other characteristics of parallel servo grippers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents in detail two different kinds of developed two‐fingered servo grippers based on piezoelectric technology with parallel moving mechanics. The first gripper is based on standing wave ultrasonic motors. The other gripper is a traditional gripper, the characteristics of which have been improved with integrated piezoelectric stack actuators. Both servo grippers have been tested and the test results and experiences are introduced in the paper.

Findings

It is possible to improve the accuracy and characteristics of a parallel servo gripper with piezoelectric technology.

Research limitations/implications

In the future it is necessary to concentrate on the mechanical design of gripper bodies and the fingers. Grasping force feedback signal should be even more linear and noiseless.

Practical implications

Piezoelectric stack actuator's limited displacement is a problem in many practical applications when elastic or rough surface parts are handled. When integrated piezoelectric stacks are used with servo grippers, it is very important to focus on gripper's mechanical design and especially on the mechanical rigidity for getting the best possible results.

Originality/value

Further developed versions of these servo grippers can be used in high accuracy industry applications instead of traditional servo gripper technologies.
A selective disassembly methodology for end‐of‐life products
Authors: Kara S. , Pornprasitpol P. , Kaebernick H.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to develop a selective disassembly methodology for generating an optimum disassembly sequence for end‐of‐life (EOL) products.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a selective disassembly methodology for EOL products. In order to achieve this, Nevins and Whitney's methodology for assembly was modified. In addition, a Java‐based software was developed to speed up the generation of all possible disassembly sequences.

Findings

Finds that the methodology developed by Nevins and Whitney for assembly is applicable to disassembly process. In addition, the winnowing process for disassembly is much easier than for assembly because of the selective disassembly approach, which automatically provides a significant constraint on possible sequences.

Research limitations/implications

Provides an easy to use and visual disassembly sequence generation tool for end‐of‐life products.

Practical implications

Disassembly is one of the significant cost drivers in achieving close loop manufacturing. Application of the methodology proposed in this paper will significantly reduce the disassembly time by providing a disassembly sequence for the selected components with reuse potential.

Originality/value

Provides a graphical representation of disassembly sequences at different stages of the process, which allows the user to visualize the disassembly process.
Use of artificial neural networks for determining optimum thread forming speeds for thread forming fasteners
Authors: Chumakov Roman E. , Nauk Kandidat
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Develops a neural network based system for optimum assembly speeds using thread‐forming fasteners.

Design/methodology/approach

Uses a three layer neural network to optimise thread forming speeds based on thread diameter and pitch and the total number of thread coils.

Findings

The method demonstrates savings in energy and reduction in torque values of 20‐30 per cent.

Research limitations/implications

Provides a method that works even when less experimental data are available.

Practical implications

The method should provide a higher quality and reliability and allow thread‐forming fasteners to be used in new application areas.

Originality/value

Provides an efficient and less labour intensive method for insertion speed optimisation.
An investigation into joining of austenitic‐stainless steels (AISI 304) with friction welding
Authors: Sahin Mumin
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to determine if friction welding is suitable for welding austenitic stainless steel (AISI 304)

Design/methodology/approach

Uses an experimental continuous drive friction welding set‐up. Determined the strength, hardness and microstructure of the joined parts.

Findings

Finds that the joint strengths are 96 per cent of those of the base metals with no significant hardening.

Practical implications

Friction welding is an appropriate joining method for austenitic stainless steel (AISI 304).

Originality/value

Aids in understanding appropriate uses of friction welding for joining stainless steel.
Concurrent design and manufacturing process of automotive composite components
Authors: Sapuan S.M.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To present the findings of the research on the use of concurrent engineering in the development of polymeric based composite automotive clutch pedal. It covers the use of various IT such as expert system, FEA, CAD, mould flow and rapid prototyping in order to carry out various activities such as material selection, total design, design analysis and mould flow analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The work started with the conceptual design of an automotive composite clutch pedal. Various design guides related to composite materials were followed. The final concept of the composite clutch pedal is developed using Pro/Engineer solid modelling package. Design analysis was carried out using LUSAS to study the optimum pedal lever cross section and the optimum rib patterns in pedal lever. Mould flow analysis was investigated to predict the behaviour of materials inside the injection moulding machine and the results are compared with experimental values. Rapid prototyping models were developed based on two techniques namely 3D printer and stereolithography and they are compared in terms of quality, time and cost.

Findings

In this study, the integrated IT tools enable the designer to design and manufacture automotive an composite clutch pedal at higher quality and faster time compared to a metal counterpart. By adopting composite design guides, weight saving from implementing composite materials in the clutch pedal is achievable. It is found that an expert system for material selection enables designer to select the suitable composite material for the clutch pedal by considering various parameters such as strength, modulus, density, manufacturing and economic constraints. Rapid prototyping models enable the designer to communicate effectively their design to other parties early in the design process. Mould flow analysis is carried out to predict the behaviour of material inside the mould and to design the optimum moulding parameters such as fill time, fill temperature and gate location.

Originality/value

In this study, the originality lies in the integration of various IT tools in the development of composite clutch pedal. The designer is exposed to various design and manufacturing issues from the implementation of such approach early in the design process.
From rhetoric towards a model of practical knowledge management systems
Authors: Xu Jun , Quaddus Mohammed
Published: May 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption and diffusion of knowledge management systems (KMSs) in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative field study was undertaken, in which six Australian organizations of various sizes, all in various stages of KMS adoption and diffusion, were studied via face‐to‐face interviews with key personnel in the organizations.

Findings

A comprehensive combined model of adoption and diffusion of KMS was developed and is presented in detail.

Practical limitations/implications

This paper explains how the combined model can be used for practical applications in companies that are embarking on KMS adoption and diffusion.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the KMS literature by taking a qualitative research approach to develop a comprehensive model.
Adoption and diffusion of knowledge management systems: an Australian survey
Authors: Xu Jun , Quaddus Mohammed
Published: May 2005

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption and diffusion of knowledge management systems (KMSs) in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a mixed methodology approach. The research was carried out in three stages: field study, pilot survey, and national survey (top 1,500 companies). This paper reports the findings of the third phase of the study – the national survey. The data of the national survey was analyzed through structural equation modeling (LISREL).

Findings

The results indicate that individual factors and task complexity are the significant factors that influence the perceived usefulness of KMSs which, in turn, significantly influence the intention to adopt a KMS and its diffusion process. Some unexpected results were also found.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of studies on the empirical perspectives of KMSs in the literature, especially in the area of adoption and diffusion. This research addresses this gap by studying the adoption and diffusion of KMSs in Australian organizations.
Export intermediation and the internet: an activity‐unbundling approach
Authors: Houman Andersen Poul
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To construct a theoretical framework for understanding the impact of the digitalisation of transactions on the organisation of export intermediation.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual/research paper with a number of illustrative examples – primarily from SMEs.

Findings

In the paper, a range of internet‐enabled forms of export intermediation are derived, offsetting the conventional trade‐off between resource commitment and marketing control.

Practical implications

The paper holds a number of relevant insights for export managers seeking to integrate the possibilities of the digital revolution in the organisation of their export marketing activities. These include reshuffling of export marketing tasks among the actors in the marketing channel and new forms of activity specialisation among actors.

Originality/value

Using the theoretical framework of Alderson in combination with transaction cost theorizing. The paper provides a novel theoretical approach for understanding the evolution of marketing institutions in the export marketing field.
A conceptual framework of antecedents of information search in exporting
Authors: Yeoh Poh‐Lin
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The most commonly used segmentation approach to understand information acquisition behavior in the exporting context is to group individuals/firms on a variety of demographic and psychographic variables. This paper argues that while psychographic and demographic segmentation provide descriptive information about who are likely to engage in information search, they are insufficient to provide insights into why individuals search.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the applied psychology literature, an integrative framework using the key constructs of motivation and cognitive ability is developed that conceptualizes the influences of and outcomes from information acquisition.

Practical implications

By studying information acquisition within the context of the interactions between motivation and ability, normative insights can be gained on the likelihood of management's active participation in information search. The author develops a typology for the nature of information acquisition to explain the behaviors of user firms with respect to government‐sponsored export programs/services.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to make two contributions to the export behavior literature: by setting the stage for a more multi‐disciplinary analytical and deliberate approach to export information acquisition with respect to identifying relevant variables as antecedents to motivation and cognitive ability to search, and developing a conceptual framework for addressing their relationship to export performance; and advancing research propositions that facilitate empirical testing of these relationships in future research.
The fallout from French nuclear testing in the South Pacific
Authors: Ettenson Richard , Gabrielle Klein Jill
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The frequency and sophistication of consumer boycotts continue to increase from already high levels. Surprisingly, only limited research in marketing has investigated this topic. The purpose of this paper is to provide a strategic analysis of an actual consumer protest with implications for better managerial decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The animosity model of consumer purchase behavior was employed in two longitudinal studies to investigate an ongoing marketplace protest – Australian consumers' boycott of French products. Study 1 was carried out while France was engaged in nuclear testing in the South Pacific. Study 2 was carried out 1 year after the resolution of the conflict.

Findings

Results from Study 1 show that Australian consumers' animosity toward France was negatively related to their willingness to purchase French products. Consistent with a key prediction from the animosity model, this effect was independent of evaluations of French product quality. The findings from Study 2 show that, a year after the cessation of nuclear testing, Australian consumers continue to have strong negative affect toward France, which in turn, had negative marketplace consequences for French products.

Originality/value

While the results from Study 1 show that consumer anger over nuclear testing did not necessarily lead to the denigration of the quality of French goods, the second study indicates that, beyond the duration of the official protest, there may be repercussions for products associated with the offending party. Accordingly, managers should consider implementing communications programs which, over time, effectively reinforce the quality of their products in the minds of protesting consumers.
Quality audits: their status, prowess and future focus
Authors: Rajendran M. , Devadasan S.R.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To explore the current status, prowess, and future of quality audits, which would help both researchers and practitioners to adopt quality‐auditing practice for achieving the objectives of continuous quality improvement (CQI) models like total quality management (TQM).

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on quality audits was collected from the Emerald‐insight library. The most appropriate papers dealing with quality‐auditing practice and its closely related topics were excavated. These papers were classified into six categories and their contributions with inferences drawn have been presented.

Findings

Quality audits are not only meant for checking the systems for their compliance with quality system (QS) standards, they can also be used for exercising CQI and reaching the benchmarks of TQM. The conclusive finding is that identification of a legitimate quality audit standard and its financial accounting system shall be the future focus of research in this arena.

Research limitations/implications

In comparison to the volume of QS certifications that have taken place throughout the world, the number of papers on quality audits and its closely related topics excavated through literature mining exercises was less. This may aberrate the findings and inferences of literature mining on quality audits.

Practical implications

The findings and inferences drawn by conducting the literature mining on quality‐auditing will be useful to the practitioners for orienting quality audits toward achieving the goals of models like TQM. This will ensure the cost effectiveness of quality audits and reaping larger benefits out of them.

Originality/value

This paper shows a future focus of research which would help the researchers working in TQM arena to work in this direction in consultation with practitioners. This would witness the development of performance measurement metrics and financial accounting systems pertaining to the conduct of quality audits.
Interactive organizational commitment and hardiness in public accountants' turnover
Authors: Law Daniel W.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The overall purpose of the study is to build upon and add to a turnover model for public accounting. This study examines two components of organizational commitment, affective and continuance, and attempts to reconcile mixed results found in prior studies. An interaction of the two components and the personality trait of hardiness are explored.

Design/methodology/approach

One hundred and twenty‐eight public accountants from three firms participated in the study by completing self‐report questionnaires. Established scales for the variables of interest were employed, and OLS regression was used to test hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that affective commitment is the most salient component of commitment in predicting turnover, but an interaction of continuance and affective commitment is also significant. The results also indicate that hardiness is a significant personality variable in predicting turnover.

Research limitations/implications

Generalizability of results may be limited as participation was limited to three firms. Theoretical implications include establishing the relative saliency of the commitment components to turnover in public accountants and building the turnover model by adding a commitment interaction and personality hardiness.

Practical implications

Management of public accounting firms can better focus on strategy to emotionally attach individuals to a firm and prevent undesirable turnover. To better assist recruiters in hiring, firms can incorporate hardiness into its pre‐hire fit assessment to gauge compatibility.

Originality/value

In addition to clarifying results from prior studies, this paper introduces interactive commitment and personality hardiness to a model of public accounting turnover.