bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wide frequency band analysis of an antenna by finite elements
Authors: Choua Y. , Le Bihan Y. , Pichon L.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to calculate the impedance of a loop antenna, etched on a dielectric substrate, over a wide frequency band using finite element method (FEM).

Design/methodology/approach

The electromagnetic analysis of the global structure is performed with a full wave finite element formulation. In this work, two methods for the calculation of the impedance of the antenna are presented: receiving and transmitting mode. The results obtained are compared with boundary element method (BEM).

Findings

The paper finds that from the FEM analysis an equivalent circuit of a rectenna was obtained over a wide frequency band. A good agreement was obtained with a BEM approach in the case of an air‐like substrate. A dielectric substrate was considered. Such a configuration is more difficult to deal with BEM and makes the FEM attractive.

Practical implications

The equivalent circuit allows a global circuit simulation of the whole rectenna (antenna, rectifying diodes and load). This simulation can be achieved using spice simulator for example.

Originality/value

This paper shows the potentiality of the FEM to simulate an antenna over a broad band frequency. Two methods for the calculation of the impedance of the antenna are presented. It is addressed to R&D designers in the microwave area.
Application of Spice simulator in the evaluation of crosstalk computational models
Authors: Tosin André , Gerlach Dietz Willian , França Sartori Carlos Antonio , Roberto Cardoso José
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to present an evaluation of the crosstalk models developed for a shareware version of Spice.

Design/methodology/approach

The transmission line model is compared with π lumped circuit models by varying the number of cells. The influence of losses is also introduced, and some constraints regarding the models are examined, showing the suitability of the new Spice libraries developed by the authors. In order to validate the theoretical results some experiments were carried out.

Findings

The paper finds that Spice is a powerful engineering tool for students and technicians involved in EMC analyses.

Originality/value

The main aspects concerning the accuracy and integrity of the experimental data are emphasized and discussed in this paper.
Rigorous ADI‐FDTD analysis of left‐handed metamaterials in optimally‐designed EMC applications
Authors: Kantartzis Nikolaos V. , Tsiboukis Theodoros D.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper seeks to investigate the precise time‐domain modelling and broadband performance optimisation of 3D EMC structures formed by composite left‐handed metamaterials.

Design/methodology/approach

A frequency‐dependent alternating‐direction implicit finite‐difference time‐domain method is introduced. Developing a class of multi‐directional curvilinear schemes for double‐negative media, the unconditionally stable algorithm forms robust lattice tessellations and provides advanced models complicated media interfaces. Moreover, the erroneous refractions at the metamaterial boundaries are systematically analysed through dynamic stencil configurations and powerful perfectly matched layer absorbers.

Findings

The paper finds that the proposed technique leads to convergent discretisations that resolve all propagation bandwidths and enhances the design of promising periodical devices loaded by substrates of thin wires and split‐ring resonators. Furthermore, its versatile character subdues dispersion deficiencies far beyond the usual stability criteria. Numerical validation, addressing various up‐to‐date EMC devices like coupled antennas, waveguides, high‐pass filters and absorber linings in test facilities, confirms the merits of the algorithm.

Originality/value

The novel methodology offers an advanced nodal control process which drastically suppresses the serious dispersion errors of existing approaches as time‐step exceeds the Courant limit. The resulting grids can support coarse resolutions, while the general curvilinear framework, along with the ADI rationale, allows the accurate approximation of demanding permittivity and permeability constitutive profiles. Hence, high accuracy and confined computational overhead are achieved without the need of laborious assumptions.
The influence of demagnetisation and temperature on the performance of PM machines
Authors: Simkin John , Michaelides Alex , Riley Chris
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper seeks to present finite element methods for modelling hard magnetic material magnetisation and degradation “in service”. It aims to describe methods of representing the hysteretic behaviour of permanent magnets, and allowing for variations in the material characteristics caused by temperature and demagnetising fields.

Design/methodology/approach

A permanent magnet DC motor example is used to demonstrate the complete modelling cycle. The magnetisation of the ring‐segments of the stator magnets was modelled using a transient, non‐linear, eddy‐current solver. The rings were transferred to the PMDC motor. The de‐magnetisation of the magnets “in service” was studied as a function of load, operating armature current and temperature.

Findings

The effect of hard magnetic material de‐magnetization was accurately quantified. Its dependence on the reverse‐field armature currents and operating temperature was demonstrated. The benefits of accurately representing the material characteristics in PMDC motors were clearly identified.

Research limitations/implications

The model for hard magnetic materials under magnetizing and demagnetising fields can only be perfected by using measured data. The measurements are hard to perform, in particular the effect of demagnetising fields at an angle to the easy magnetization axis is very difficult to measure.

Originality/value

The paper enhances the understanding of the process of hard magnetic material magnetisation and demagnetisation, fully examining the mechanisms and their dependence on parameters such as magnetising and demagnetising fields and temperature. The paper demonstrates how FEA methods can help to design electrical machine by accurately representing magnetic material properties and processes.
Effects of coil current phase on eddy current loss of permanent magnets in IPM motors
Authors: Kawase Yoshihiro , Yamaguchi Tadashi , Hashimoto Kou , Nakamura Masanori
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to investigate the eddy current loss in permanent magnets of IPM motors.

Design/methodology/approach

Uses the 3D finite element method (3D FEM).

Findings

Finds that the effect of the current phase on the eddy current loss is very different according to the number of slots.

Originality/value

Investigates the eddy current loss in a permanent magnet of an IPM motor.
EasyMAG – magnetic field toolbox calculator for electrical installation project
Authors: Almeida Tony Richard O. , Paulo Coimbra António , Lemos Antunes Carlos F.R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to present a software application, called EasyMAG, for simulating and calculating the magnetic field during the design of domestic/industrial electrical installations.

Design/methodology/approach

From a CAD software 3D representation of the model, including the electric wiring and considering the current in the electrical circuits, the software evaluates the magnetic field intensity for power‐line frequencies at different heights.

Findings

Two application examples are presented consisting of a cabling layout in a lab room with three phase illumination and power socket circuits and a computer room above a power transformer room. The results were compared with measured values showing a good agreement between them.

Originality/value

Shows that with this software it is possible to anticipate areas where magnetic field values might reach abnormally high values and to analyze alternative wiring layouts in order to keep the magnetic field values as low as possible.
The cold war within a sociological systems perspective
Authors: Misheva Vessela
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a systems explanation of world wars as civilizational phenomena with a special focus on the cold war defined as an interaction war between two parties which cannot communicate with each other.

Design/methodology/approach

As a theoretical framework for this analysis an elaborated version of Luhmann's systems theory is used which discusses the relationship between systems and media. The method is defined as a third‐order cybernetics which entails first‐order observations, second‐order observation of observers, and finally their mutual observations as being observed.

Findings

Identifies the east‐west ideological conflict as a conflict within the world system of society by which the system is at war with itself. This “self” is considered as comprising two parts: self and other. The one is identified as an autopoietic system and the other as an allopoietic system, each struggling for the status of system and for the transformation of the other into its medium. The traditional understanding of the history of the European civilization as having one single ancestor is challenged.

Research limitations/implications

It is not an exhaustive analysis but rather an outline of a theory whose purpose is to define the source of international and intranational confrontations.

Practical implications

The approach can be developed further and used for the analysis of the war on terrorism and the relationship between political system and social movements.

Originality/value

The paper offers an innovative systems perspective on world wars with a special focus on the cold war which promises to overcome the difficulties which their analysis with traditional sociological theories at present encounters.
Happiness and the pursuit of happiness
Authors: Hornung Bernd R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a coherent theoretical framework for interdisciplinary research on happiness, integrating the psychological, physiological/biological, and social/cultural levels, permitting integration of disparate approaches within and across disciplines.

Design/methodology/approach

Principles and findings of cybernetics are combined to shed light on difficulties encountered by research on happiness. Using a problem‐oriented approach, the reference system is defined as a psychological information‐processing and decision‐making system. This is an actor system in the social world needing orientation to act. Bossel's systems theory of orientation is applied to emotionality as a subsystem of the psychological system. Happiness, in terms of orientation theory, can be conceived as a meta‐orientor indicating wholeness, health, and the functioning of the overall‐system.

Findings

Emotionality and rationality are complementary decision‐making systems. Conditions are identified for developing the capability for emotional orientation and happiness in individuals. These conditions are strongly dependent on the social/cultural environment. Among them are the need for diversity in real‐life experience and for psychological acceptance of both oneself and the (sociocultural) environment. They can permit (relative) stability of happiness defined as an emotional state.

Practical implications

Further research can produce methods to improve happiness both by coaching individuals and by developing social conditions more conducive to happiness, e.g. in education. Happiness is a subjective indicator for physical, psychological, and social wellbeing taken together, which is the definition of health of WHO.

Originality/value

This sociocybernetic approach, combining systems concepts with orientation theory, can serve as an integrative theoretical framework for so far separate theoretical approaches.
Sociocybernetics and social entropy theory
Authors: Bailey Kenneth D.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present the contributions of sociocybernetics, particularly as developed by Felix Geyer, and to compare sociocybernetics with social entropy theory (SET).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first outlines the problems with earlier approaches, and then briefly discusses the four approaches constituting the “new” social systems theory: sociocybernetics, social‐autopoiesis theory, living systems theory (LST), and SET. Next the six chief contributions of sociocybernetics are discussed. Then sociocybernetics is compared with SET. The paper ends with a brief comparison of Geyer's sociocybernetics with the other two new approaches, social autopoiesis and LST.

Findings

Sociocybernetics is found to be a context‐specific, observer‐dependent approach that relies heavily on second‐order cybernetics. The comparison of sociocybernetics with SET also finds that the latter complements the former in valuable ways. Geyer's approach to sociocybernetics is also found to be compatible with both social autopoiesis and LST.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information for scholars interested in the comparative analysis of the new social‐systems theory.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first comparison of sociocybernetics with the other new social‐systems theories – SET, social autopoiesis, and LST. It clearly shows the value of Geyer's approach to sociocybernetics. It is valuable to all scholars interested in modern social‐systems theory. Sociocybernetics will be recognized as one of the great theoretical contributions of twentieth century sociology. It will also be forever linked with the names of its principal founders, Geyer and van der Zouwen. The numerous contributions of sociocybernetics are all the more impressive when it is recognized that they were made against a backdrop of widespread misunderstanding, mistrust, and outright rejection of its precursor approaches in social systems theory.
A forgotten message? von Bertalanffy's puzzle
Authors: de Zeeuw Gerard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to celebrate Felix Geyer's many contributions to the systems movement. He participated from the beginning, with the energy that has become his hallmark. The area of systems studies was introduced in The Netherlands in about 1970, mainly through the activities of the Systeemgroep Nederland or Dutch Systems Group, initiated by Ab Hanken. The paper aims to unearth the original message that made the field of systems attractive.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim is achieved on the basis of a re‐analysis of von Bertalanffy's systems papers, which he published under the title of “General System Theory”.

Findings

von Bertalanffy's message was not what is usually thought – that many political leaders treat their problems incompetently and hence make them less solvable or even create messes. He answered a general question about knowledge acquisition, in an area where an answer was sorely needed.

Practical implications

von Bertalanffy's answer inspired hope that one day one would be able to acquire the knowledge needed to solve the politicians' problems. He even identified a number of methods to do so.

Originality/value

The claim of the paper is that von Bertalanffy intended systems thinking to extend methods of knowing. This intention has been obscured by the limited methods he introduced. This claim is argued in an original way.
Studying alienation: toward a better society?
Authors: Kalekin‐Fishman Devorah
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To show that, although it is not intuitively evident, it is clear that, for the researchers, studying alienation is one way of doing social science that contributes to making society better.

Design/methodology/approach

Reference is made to early sociologists who developed theories that describe and explain the revolutionary effects of modernity, as evidenced in industrialization and in the enlightenment. The references include Durkheim who developed the concept of anomie to suggest disorders of the consciousness; Weber who described the effects of bureaucratization as an iron cage; and Marx who discussed alienation as a comprehensive structural concept.

Findings

In light of what they saw as the key concept for the frustrations, each of the fathers of sociology had a view of how the malaise of modernity could be overcome. Today, some sociologists can point to concrete paths to improvement. Critical sociologists show that, although alienation is still prevalent, the very structures that cause its persistence also indicate how it can be undermined so as to lead to a reconstruction of society. Systems analysts are also able to delve into the systemic potential for releasing energies of liberation through the dynamic interplay of macro‐arrangements, micro‐procedures, and emotions.

Originality/value

Given that it is important to researchers who study alienation to find ways for reconstructing social relations, it is gratifying to know that, in his work as the President of the Research Committee for the study of alienation, Felix Geyer applied the systems approach to a construction of de‐alienating modes of collaboration, even as he continued to develop his own research productively.
The biological metaphor of a second‐order observer and the sociological discourse
Authors: Leydesdorff Loet
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In the tradition of Spencer Brown's Laws of Form, observation was defined in Luhmann's social systems theory as the designation of a distinction. In the sociological design, however, the designation specifies only a category for the observation. The distinction between observation and expectation enables the sociologist to appreciate the processing of meaning in social systems. Seeks to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The specification of “the observer” in the tradition of systems theory is analyzed in historical detail. Inconsistencies and differences in perspectives are explicated, and the specificity of human language is further specified. The processing of meaning in social systems adds another layer to the communication.

Findings

Reflexivity about the different perspectives of participant observers and an external observer is fundamental to the sociological discourse. The ranges of possible observations from different perspectives can be considered as second‐order observations or, equivalently, as the specification of an uncertainty in the observations. This specification of an uncertainty provides an expectation. The expectation can be provided with (one or more) values by observations. The significance of observations can be tested when the expectations are properly specified.

Originality/value

The expectations (second‐order observations) are structured and therefore systemic attributes to the discourse. However, the metaphor of a (meta‐)biological observer has disturbed the translation of social systems theory into sociological discourse. Different discourses specify other expectations about possible observations. By specifying second‐order observations as expectations, social systems theory and sociocybernetics can combine the constructivist with an empirical approach.
The two faces of American power
Authors: Deinema Michaël , Leydesdorff Loet
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to explains the mismatches between political discourse and military momentum in the US handling of the Cuban missile crisis by using the model of the potential autopoiesis of subsystems. Under wartime conditions, the codes of political and military communications can increasingly be differentiated.

Design/methodology/approach

The model of a further differentiation between political and military power is developed on the basis of a detailed description of the Cuban missile crisis. The concept of a “semi‐dormant autopoiesis” is introduced for the difference in the dynamics between peacetime and wartime conditions.

Findings

Several dangerous incidents during the crisis can be explained by a sociocybernetic model focusing on communication and control, but not by using an organization‐theoretical approach. The further differentiation of the military as a subsystem became possible in the course of the twentieth century because of ongoing learning processes about previous wars.

Practical implications

Politicians should not underestimate autonomous military processes or the significance of standing orders. In order to continually produce communications within the military, communication partners are needed that stand outside the hierarchy, and this role can be fulfilled by an enemy. A reflexively imagined enemy can reinforce the autopoiesis of the military subsystem.

Originality/value

The paper shows that civilian control over military affairs has become structurally problematic and offers a sociocybernetic explanation of the missile crisis. The potential alternation in the dynamics under peacetime and wartime conditions brings historical specificity back on the agenda of social systems theory.
Cybernetics and systems on the web: Jerry Wiesner and MIT
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to review internet sources relevant to the life and achievements of Jerry Wiesner. He was Director of the Research Laboratory of Electronics of MIT during the birth of cybernetics, and later president of MIT and an international statesman. Also seeks to review another source referring to recent activities in MIT.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Findings

Light is shed on the remarkable achievements of Wiesner, and on subsequent activities in MIT.

Practical implications

Much can be learned from Wiesner's example, both from his humanitarian attitudes and from his profound analysis of society. It can also be seen that MIT continues to be innovative.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
The electrostatic force and the annihilation of particles and antiparticles
Authors: Fidelman Uri
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This study seeks to explain how a cybernetic system, the human brain, creates the cognitive models that are applied by physics to explain particular phenomena of the physical world, namely, the electrostatic force and the annihilation of matter and antimatter.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies findings in cognitive psychology of vision, neuropsychology of the hemispheric mechanisms and quantum mechanics in order to explain how the electrostatic force operates at distance between two charged particles.

Findings

In addition to the quantum fields theory, which explains the electrostatic force by photons that carry this force between charged particles (and is related to the left‐hemispheric cognitive mechanism) a dual theory is suggested that explains this force by interchanging of features between particles (and is related to the right‐hemispheric cognitive mechanism).

Originality/value

Like Fidelman's previous studies, this too demonstrates that cybernetic considerations which use cognitive psychological, neuropsychological and physical‐knowledge can obtain testable and applicable physical theories.
Weighted (h,φ)‐divergences in goodness‐of‐fit with composite null hypotheses
Authors: Landaburu E. , Pardo L.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Proposes a test of goodness‐of‐fit with composite null hypotheses and weights in the classes based on weighted (h,φ)‐divergences.

Design/methodology/approach

The weighted (h,φ)‐divergence between an empirical distribution and the probability of the estimated model is here investigated for large simple random samples.

Findings

The unknown parameters of the model are estimated using minimum (h,φ)‐divergences estimators with weights as studied in previous works by the authors.

Originality/value

Research makes an important contribution to (h,φ)‐divergences and their applications in statistical and other areas.
On intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces
Authors: Gallego Lupiáñez Francisco
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In 2000, Wang and He published an important result on the theory of intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs). Indeed, they showed that every IFS may be regarded as an L‐fuzzy set for some appropriate lattice L. This paper aims to show that, nevertheless, the results obtained by various authors on intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces (IFTSs), are not redundant with others for the ordinary fuzzy sense.

Design/methodology/approach

The most important definitions and results on intuitionistic fuzzy topology (IFT) one compared with the result obtained by Wang and He.

Findings

That these results are not redundant.

Research limitations/implications

Clearly, this paper is devoted to IFTSs.

Practical implications

The main applications are in the mathematical field.

Originality/value

The originality and value of IFT are here demonstrated.
New methods for solving of nonlinear weakly singular integral equations
Authors: Maleknejad K. , Mesgarani H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to present a boundary integral equation method for solving Laplace's equation Δu=0 with nonlinear boundary conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The nonlinear boundary value problem is reformulated as a nonlinear boundary integral equation, with u on the boundary as the solution being sought. The integral equation is solved numerically by using the collocation method on smooth or nonsmooth boundary; the singularities of solution degrade the rates of convergence.

Findings

Variants of the methods for finding numerical solutions are suggested. So these methods have been compared with respect to number of iterations.

Practical implications

Numerical experiments show the efficiency of the proposed methods.

Originality/value

Provides new methods to solve nonlinear weakly singular integral equations and discusses difficulties that arise in particular cases.
A holistic frame‐of‐reference for modelling social systems
Authors: Sice Petia , French Ian
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To outline a philosophical system of inquiry that may be used as a frame‐of‐reference for modelling social systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on insights from cognitive science, autopoiesis, management cybernetics and non‐linear dynamics.

Findings

The outcome of this paper is an outline of a frame‐of‐reference to be used as a starting point (or a frame of orientation) for any problem solving/modelling intent or act. The framework highlights the importance of epistemological reflection and the need to avoid any separation of the process of knowing from that of modelling. It also emphasises the importance of inquiry into the assumptions that underpin the methods, tools and techniques that we employ, and into the tacit beliefs of the human actors who use them.

Research limitations/implications

The presented frame‐of‐reference should be regarded as an evolving system of inquiry, one that seeks to incorporate contemporary human insight.

Practical implications

Exactly, how the frame‐of‐reference presented in this paper should be exploited within an organisational or educational context, is a question to which there is no single “correct” answer. What is primarily important, however, is that it should be used to raise the profile of, and disseminate the benefits that accrue from, inquiry which goes beyond the simple application of tools and methods.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new framework‐of‐reference for modelling social systems that draws on insights from cognitive science, autopoiesis, management cybernetics and non‐linear dynamics.
A sketch of a methodology for designing supportive information systems
Authors: Malmsjö Anders
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to make a distinction between supportive and operative information systems. The overall aim is to find and argue for a methodology approach which is relevant for designing supportive information systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of this work is on the fundamental philosophical conditions for a methodology that can be used for designing supportive information systems. The analyses are founded on works by James G. Miller, John P. van Gigch and C. West Churchman, which means that living systems theory, the metamodeling approach, according to van Gigch, and Churchman's inquiring systems have been used to highlight epistemological considerations that this sketch of a methodology is based on.

Findings

Two kinds of information systems have been stressed: operative and supportive information systems. The differences between them are described and their distinction has been accomplished by using, i.e. Miller's theory. The methodology approach bears a strong resemblance to that of system design, according to van Gigch, and that of interactive planning, according to Russell L. Ackoff. The following phases of a sketch of a methodology for designing supportive information systems have been identified: identification phase, specification phase, design phase, and implementation phase.

Originality/value

The different conditions for designing operative and supportive information systems are described. An epistemological contribution related to the basis for a methodology is given. The value of the paper is that it emphasises that the selection and development of a methodology is not a trivial matter.
On measures of information content of grey numbers
Authors: Liu Sifeng , Lin Yi
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explore a more effective method to study the information content of grey numbers.

Design/methodology/approach

An axiomatic approach is used for the measurement of information content of a given grey number.

Findings

A new definition for information content of grey numbers is introduced. And, relevant results are proven.

Originality/value

This work fills the vacancy on how to measure the information value contained in a grey number.
Optimal control of cancer chemotherapy model using the coupled Adomian/Alienor methods
Authors: Manseur S. , Cherruault Y.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper deals with the use of the combined Adomian/Alienor methods for solving the problem of optimal cancer chemotherapy model.

Design/methodology/approach

The combination of the Adomian decomposition method and the Alienor reducing transformation method allows us to solve the control problem as if it were a classical one dimensional minimization problem. The mathematical model used here describes specific model based on cell‐cycle kinetics.

Findings

It was found that the goal is to maintain the number of the cancerous cells around a desired value while keeping the toxicity to the normal tissues acceptable.

Practical implications

Simulation results are given for illustration.

Originality/value

New combined approach to optimal control of cancer chemotherapy using Adomian/Alienor Methods.
Preparation and characterisation of high performance rubber vulcanizates loaded with modified aluminium oxide
Authors: El‐Sabbagh Salwa H. , Ahmed Nivin M. , Selim Mohamed M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

A new method for modifying the properties of aluminium oxide had been developed which allowed alumina to be used as a white, reinforcing filler in various rubber composites to replace carbon black, producing high performance white rubber vulcanizates comparable to those loaded with carbon black that could be coloured if needed.

Design/methodology/approach

Alumina was treated with small amounts of ammonium molybdate. Characterisation of modified aluminium oxide was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Also, evaluation of the pigments prepared, in terms of oil absorption, specific gravity, and bulking value using international standard testing methods was performed. The morphology of the natural rubber composites loaded with the new modified alumina were studied using SEM. Kraus equation was used to analyse the extent of polymer‐pigment interaction, while Mooney‐Rivlin relation was employed to study the near equilibrium stress‐strain behaviour.

Findings

The results showed that, the pigment had a significant effect on the rheological characteristics (scorch, cure time, etc.), mechanical properties, stress and strain at yield and at rupture of white rubber vulcanizates prepared resulting in high performance.

Research limitations/implications

As concentration of molybdenum oxide increased in the alumina crystals, the reinforcing effect in rubber composites also increased till an optimum concentration where such a reinforcing effect reversed. However, investigation of the application of these pigments in other systems such as an anticorrosive pigment in paint formulations and reinforcing filler in polyester composites could also be interesting.

Practical implications

The pigments prepared could be used as reinforcing filler in plastic composites and also as anticorrosive pigment in paint formulations.

Originality/value

Aluminium oxide is a cheap compound. The originality of the work lay in the finding that by adding trace amounts of molybdenym to it, aluminium oxide's properties changed dramatically resulting in more effective action in reinforcing rubber composites filled with such modified alumina, producing white rubber composites with comparable properties to those loaded with carbon black, and may exceed them in some cases. This allowed the preparation of coloured rubber with good rheological and physical properties.
Preparation and characterisation of photoelectric and electrochemical capability of polyimide doped with CdSe and CdSe/TiO2
Authors: Wang C. , Huang Z. , Bai X. , Huang N. , Wang B.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the photoelectrochemical characteristics of polymer doped with CdSe and CdSe/TiO2 for improved photoelectric conversion efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

A method was set‐up to dope the nano‐CdSe with poly‐perylene‐tetracarboxylic imide (PPI) in the nano‐TiO2/ITO films, which were characterised by X‐ray diffraction; electrochemical analytical system; multifunctional grating spectrometer; digital photometer and ultrasonic cleanout instrument, etc.

Findings

The modification of PPI doped with CdSe and CdSe/TiO2 showed significant elevation of the monochromatic incident photo‐to‐electron conversion efficiency (IPCE) of the photoelectrode, which was about 3 per cent. The doping caused a tone up separate efficiency of charge, restraining the complex of electron‐cavity by doped nano‐CdSe. Therefore, the photocurrent of the TiO2 film doped with nano‐CdSe was about three times higher than that without.

Research limitations/implications

The mixed film could also be formed from conjugated polymer mixed with polymer and inorganic particle, based on polymer doped with CdSe and CdSe/TiO2. In addition, the monochromatic incident IPCE of the photoelectrode needs to be extensively studied.

Practical implications

The treatment method developed provided a practical and effective solution to increasing the ICPE.

Originality/value

The method for doping polymer with CdSe and CdSe/TiO2 was novel and could probably be adapted for the manufacture of solar cell.
Novel photochromic system derived from tetracyanoquinodimethane and pyrazoles
Authors: Asiri A.M. , Ismaiel N.H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To discover new photochromic molecules suitable for various applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The synthesis of the new photochromic pyrazole derivatives was accomplished by reaction of tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) and pyrazoles in polar solvents such as dimethylformamide (DMF).

Findings

A new photochromic system had been developed and the synthesis and photochromic properties of three pyrazole derivatives upon irradiation with ultraviolet light were studies in different solvents. The photochromic and thermochromic properties were affected markedly upon changing the solvent polarity. The new materials gave colourless to deep yellow coloration upon irradiation with ultraviolet, rendering them suitable candidates for optical storage media using the region of 400 nm.

Practical implications

A new photochromic system had been developed via a simple method. The new compounds showed photochromic, thermochromic, and solvatochromic properties making them potential candidates for many applications such as sensors, optical data storage, sensors and heat sensitive materials.

Originality/value

The photochromic system was novel and hence the photochromic molecules were novel.
Assessing new product potential in an international context: lessons learned in Thailand
Authors: Vallaster Christine , Hasenöhrl Susanna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Sets out to report on lessons learned by carrying out a concept test in Thailand. Where appropriate, aims to compare the adopted approach with the “regular” way by which the reported company assesses the potentials of new products. Based on these reflections, the authors seek to identify future research directives and develop managerial implications.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present their experiences collected during a concept‐testing project in Thailand. In a separate section, they judge the degree to which the findings can be generalized.

Findings

Describes circumstances that strongly influence the validity of the research results in an international context, in particular sampling method, the concept presentation, the questioning procedure, country‐specific market conditions, and the assessment of learning behavior.

Research limitations/implications

The authors suggest future research avenues as they relate to further conceptual development of product diffusion models in an international context. Particularly the efforts to study the impact of culture on consumer innovativeness, adopting culture conceptualizations which realistically reflect consumer behavior, are relevant.

Practical implications

The authors make recommendations as to how to cope with managerial unfamiliarity that arises in an international context: defining locus of control, being aware of where biases enter and set, the findings into the research context, defining the value‐add of additional information on learning behavior.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to provide more insights that show how practitioners manage the environmental unfamiliarity that arises in the context of international concept‐testing projects.
The impact of country of design and country of manufacture on consumer perceptions of bi‐national products' quality: an empirical model based on the concept of fit
Authors: Hamzaoui Leila , Merunka Dwight
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to decompose the concept of country of origin (COO) and test the influence of country of design (COD) and country of manufacture (COM) on consumer evaluations of bi‐national products (products designed in one country and manufactured in another). In addition to global country images, the paper aims to introduce the concept of “fit” or the logical connection between product categories and the COD or COM.

Design/methodology/approach

Relationships between constructs (perceived product quality, COD image, COM image and perceived fits) are hypothesized and data are collected via survey on the Tunisian market. Each of the 389 respondents evaluated different combinations (COD/COM) for two product categories (automobiles and television sets). All hypotheses are tested using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The paper finds that the concept of fit between country image (both COD and COM) and product category is an important determinant of product evaluations. For products with status symbolic meanings (automobiles), consumers from emerging countries are more sensitive to COD than for more private goods (television sets) for which COM and COM/product fit are important.

Research limitations/implications

This study used two informational cues (COD and COM), and fairly complex durable goods. Results need to be expanded and confirmed with other product categories on other emergent markets.

Practical implications

Practical implications of the study are that, beyond country images, measurement of fit between COD or COM and the product category will help define marketing communications and product promotions by emphasizing (or de‐emphasizing) global country information, country image/product fit, or both.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insights into consumer judgements of product quality for bi‐national products.
Integrating exhibit marketing into integrated marketing communications
Authors: Pitta Dennis A. , Weisgal Margit , Lynagh Peter
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore developments in the field of integrated marketing communication and the changing relevance of its component processes that have implications for marketing managers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper integrates concepts including a range of recently published (1993‐2005) theoretical works, practitioner developments in practice and industry studies.

Findings

The paper provides information and action approaches to marketing communicators that may increase the success of their promotional efforts. In addition, the paper provides a useful perspective in the proper use and applications of event marketing. It outlines the benefits of adopting event‐marketing techniques and offers practical suggestions for maximizing their value in the promotion process.

Research limitations/implications

The theoretical concepts that form the foundation of the paper appear to have a significant application to the integrated marketing communications. Some, but not all, have been tested empirically.

Practical implications

This study allows marketing managers to reformulate their marketing communications mix to achieve a more successful promotional process.

Originality/value

This paper describes current trends in event marketing, explores the elements of event marketing and repositions them into an enhanced integrated marketing communications framework. It offers the potential of improving the success of the promotion of products and services in practice, resulting in increasing effectiveness. Moreover, it provides a strategic perspective that is necessary for an effective integrated marketing communications process.
University of Waterloo electronic theses: issues and partnerships
Authors: Jewell Christine , Oldfield William , Reeves Sharon
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss issues associated with open access (OA) to electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs) and to describe the University of Waterloo E‐thesis Project and its partnerships with Theses Canada and the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations.

Design/methodology/approach

UW E‐thesis Project decisions on issues associated with electronic submission and OA are presented. Partnerships with Theses Canada and the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations are described and the goals and activities of these organizations are outlined.

Findings

Author‐created metadata form the UW E‐theses searchable database of records that link to theses in full text. The metadata are OAI compliant and are harvested by Theses Canada and the ETD Union Catalog. The E‐theses Project supports authors' rights while minimizing access restrictions and encourages innovations while respecting the value of gradually evolving thesis standards and traditions. The success of the UW E‐thesis Project illustrates that progress can be made toward the OA paradigm for theses and dissertations while upholding perennial values. Collaborations with like‐minded organizations support and advance these goals.

Originality/value

Academic librarians and graduate studies officers will find this e‐thesis project description and this discussion of issues relevant to planning and maintaining electronic thesis submission and access systems at their own universities. The descriptions of the benefits of the partnerships may prompt readers to make similar connections themselves.
The CARL metadata harvester and search service
Authors: Jordan Mark
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To explain the background, functionality, and content of the CARL metadata harvester and search service, http://carl‐abrc‐oai.lib.sfu.ca/, and to outline plans for improving the service. Design/methodology/approach – This case study employs simple statistical analyses to a set of harvested metadata.

Findings

This paper documents the use of unqualified Dublin Core (uDC) elements in the metadata harvested from the repositories participating in the CARL harvester, and identifies patterns in the use of that metadata. It also compares these findings with a similar study, and identifies areas for further research.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited to discussion of the characteristics of a relatively small set of metadata collected using the Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting. However, analyses reveal some patterns in the use of this metadata that are valuable in the development of best practices for repository implementers.

Practical implications

This paper documents the use of uDC elements by a specific community. Its findings will form a basis for developing mechanisms for improving the effectiveness of the metadata generated by that community and therefore the services built around that metadata.

Originality/value

While there are several other studies that take an approach similar to that taken in this paper, no one has yet studied this specific data set. More generally, this paper contributes a valuable case study to research on the implementation of the Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting.
Evolving an in‐house system to integrate the management of digital collections
Authors: Lutz Marilyn , Meadow Curtis
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To describe the evolution of a content management system at the University of Maine Library that would function as a universal, extensible metadata repository, thereby eliminating the need to build separate databases for new digital collections, and facilitating both end‐user access and the management of electronic resources in an integrated technology environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Beginning with the development of a prototype system that mapped EAD encoded finding aids to a relational database, this paper discusses the evolution of this prototype into the design and implementation of a RDBMS (and continuing development of an object‐oriented database management systems (OODBMS) system) to actively manage digital objects and associated metadata. The key to the system design is metadata: extracting and mapping, transforming, and managing the processing of MARC‐based metadata into non‐MARC schemes to build digital collections. Other relevant CMS architecture issues discussed are the design of a functional bibliographic structure and utilities for metadata harvesting and indexing.

Findings

Provides information on the use of the Dublin Core Abstract Model and a flexible and adaptable collection‐centric approach in the overall CMS architecture as implemented on a non‐MARC RDBMS, and provides an explanation of the advantages of an object oriented database system over the complexity of evolving relational database tables.

Practical implications

A useful source for the development of an in‐house CMS, and a contribution to the growing body of literature about the transformation of MARC‐based metadata for database design.

Originality/value

This paper is a case study of actual work conducted at the University of Maine Library. The RDBMS manages digital collections; the OODBMS manages digital video and other multimedia resources.