bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical calculation of 3D eddy current fields in transverse flux machines with time stepping procedures
Authors: Blissenbach Rolf , Henneberger Gerhard
Published: April 2007

Presents the calculation of the induced eddy currents in the conducting parts of transverse flux machines. Compared to conventional machines the transverse flux machine has a bigger torque, both with respect to volume and weight. For this reason, it is especially suited for direct drive applications in electric vehicles and railways. The main focus in this paper is the investigation of the different loss mechanisms caused by the sinusoidal stator current and the movement of the permanent magnet excited rotor. A 3D FEM solver with a \over right arrow A−\over right arrow A, \over right arrow T potential formulation is used in combination with edge elements. The time stepping procedure, with special focus on the displacement between stator and rotor mesh for the velocity effect, is explained in detail. The eddy current density distribution in the different parts of the machine is shown.
Optimised design of actively shielded NMR magnets
Authors: Cavaliere V. , Formisano A. , Martone R.
Published: April 2007

Magnetic resonance is becoming a routine analysis for many applications. Present day devices include active shielding systems instead of passive ferromagnetic shields. This calls for sophisticated design techniques able to provide satisfactory performance in terms of central field homogeneity, reduced stray field and minimal superconductor’s volume. In the paper some of the possible techniques to deal with such a problem are presented and discussed.
Field‐excited multiconductor transmission lines: a wavelet approach
Authors: Barmada S. , Musolino A. , Raugi M.
Published: April 2007

The analysis of multiconductor transmission lines excited by an electromagnetic field is investigated here by the use of the wavelet expansion. The exciting field is taken into account considering its contribution in terms of equivalent distributed voltage and current along the line. The resulting equations are expanded in the wavelet domain on both the variables (space and time), leading to an algebraic system in a Lyapunov form which is solved by the use of standard techniques.
Hierarchical simulated annealing vs. a Gauss‐Newton scheme applying analytical Jacobians for the solution of a source current distribution problem
Authors: Brandstätter Bernhard , Magele Christian
Published: April 2007

Considers, without loss of generality, a simple linear problem, where in a certain domain the magnetic field, generated by infinitely long conductors, whose locations as well as the currents are unknown, has to meet a certain figure. The problem is solved by applying hierarchical simulated annealing, which iteratively reduces the dimension of the search space to save computational cost. A Gauss‐Newton scheme, making use of analytical Jacobians, preceding a sequential quadratic program (SQP), will be applied as a second approach to tackle this severely ill‐posed problem. The results of these two techniques will be analyzed and discussed and some comments on future work will be given.
Multigrid methods for the computation of 3D electromagnetic field problems
Authors: Kaltenbacher M. , Reitzinger S. , Schinnerl M. , Schöberl J. , Landes H.
Published: April 2007

The focus of this paper is on the efficient numerical computation of 3D electromagnetic field problems by using the finite element (FE) and multigrid (MG) methods. The magnetic vector potential is used as the field variable and the discretization is performed by Lagrange (nodal) as well as Ne´de´lec (edge) finite elements. The resulting system of equations is solved by applying a preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) method with an adapted algebraic multigrid (AMG) as well as an appropriate geometric MG preconditioner.
Verification of extended sources reconstruction techniques using a torso phantom
Authors: Brauer Hartmut , Ziolkowski Marek , Tenner Uwe , Haueisen Jens , Nowak Hannes
Published: April 2007

Applies four different minimum norm estimations with common regularization techniques, often used in biomedical applications to the solution of the biomagnetic inverse field problem. Magnetic field data measured with a multi‐channel biomagnetometer sensor system in a magnetically shielded room were used to reconstruct the current density distributions generated by an extended current source which was placed inside a human torso phantom. No one of the tested methods is able to estimate the extension of the source. To improve the results as much as possible a priori information of the source space should be taken into account.
Time domain deconvolution approach relying on Galois sequences
Authors: Burrascano Pietro , Carpentieri Mario , Pirani Alessandro , Ricci Marco , Tissi Francesco
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to present a novel pulsed eddy currents (PEC) non‐destructive technique to investigate deep cracks in metallic structures.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is based on the time‐domain analysis of the “defect response” and joins the PEC approach with the exploitation of the peculiar auto‐correlation properties of the Galois sequences. The procedure, relying on the deconvolution of Galois sequences, greatly improves the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and thus the operating depth. De‐convolving even short Galois sequences allows one to investigate at depth ranges larger than those allowed by the conventional pulsed excitation techniques.

Findings

The technique has been tested on a benchmark and compared with numerical simulations. The experimental results showed that the SNR and the detection depth range have been significantly improved.

Research limitations/implications

Some limitations of the measuring set up were evidenced requiring a new measuring apparatus if explorations at larger depths are of interest: the 0.1 per cent impedance differences among the four coils in the bridge, although limited by an accurate construction, resulted in a limitation of the measuring system in DSP procedure adopted to null the background signal: different probe configurations must be pursued in order to allow further improvements in the deep defect detection.

Originality/value

For the first time the peculiar Galois sequences excitation was applied in a PEC system. By using these inputs the signal energy was significantly enhanced, allowing one to reconstruct by the deconvolution process the crack signatures.
Bi‐scalar boundary‐integral approach to modelling electromagnetic fields
Authors: Kucharska M. , Pawluk K.
Published: April 2007

A bi‐scalar boundary‐integral approach to the static and monoharmonic electromagnetic field
Stability analysis of equilibrium states of a certain class of non‐linear dynamic circuits
Authors: Tadeusiewicz Michal
Published: April 2007

Dynamic non‐linear circuits driven by DC voltage and current sources are considered in the paper. The problem of identification of asymptotically stable equilibrium states is analyzed. The circuits are studied where there is a one‐to‐one correspondence between each operating point of a DC model of a dynamic circuit and equilibrium state of the dynamic circuit. A method is developed, based on quantities concerning resistive circuits only, enabling us to select some of the operating points being asymptotically stable equilibrium states. It is shown that these operating points are asymptotically stable equilibrium states of some class of dynamic circuits which differ one from another in characteristics of the capacitors and inductors. The approach is illustrated by a numerical example.
Design of efficient codes for the AWGN channel based on decomposable binary lattices
Authors: Calabrò Stefano , Campanella Matteo , Garbo Giovanni
Published: April 2007

This work is concerned with the use of binary decomposable lattice codes over the QAM Gaussian channel. First, we investigate the structure of such class of lattices: we derive consistency conditions for the binary codes appearing in their decomposition and express their nominal coding gain and some bounds for their error coefficient in terms of the parameters of the component codes. Then we describe a general multistage bounded‐distance decoding algorithm with low complexity and we evaluate its performance. Finally, we develop a design example and report the corresponding simulation results; as a reference some comparisons with standard TCM codes are also presented.
About cybernetics, its roots and future
Authors: Vallée Robert
Published: April 2007

Norbert Wiener and Warren S. McCulloch are presented as the main contemporary initiators of cybernetics. Wiener chose Leibniz as “patron saint” of cybernetics because of his works on general logics and binary arithmetics. On the contrary McCulloch chose Descartes, having observed the intervention of a feedback in his conceptions about perception and consecutive action. The two paradigmatic views of Wiener and McCulloch may indicate two streams of evolution for cybernetics, leading, on the one side, to general views about perception and action or “epistemo‐praxiology” and, on the other side, to considerations about interacting systems such as a generalized world‐wide network comparable to a “creature of gigantic dimensions” covering the globe.
Homeostatics as the basis for forecasting the global ecological catastrophe
Authors: Gorsky Yu. M. , Stepanov A.M. , Teslinov A.G. , Kudrevatova O.V. , Pokrovsky S.V.
Published: April 2007

Describes how homeostatic models can be applied to modelling the normal processes, as well as the critical phenomena, such as paralysis, shock or collapse, which work in the polarised world. Discusses the development of civilisation against a background of the fight for resources, territories, spheres of influence, as well as the war between the technologies, behind which are the people. This produces an ultimately bad effect upon the ecology. Thus, unless the human race does not think better of it and changes the prevailing paradigm in relation to the nature and to the people themselves, a bitter pay‐off – the global ecological catastrophe – is due. Outlines a created simulating model of the community, which shows that a global ecological catastrophe is likely to occur between 2020 and 2050. This time frame represents a zone of bifurcation, which, it is said, may result in either the death of civilisation, or an excruciating process of rebirth, which would also involve a transition to the new information technologies (based on the principles of the plasma, vacuum, or torsion fields, and so forth). In order to avert the global ecological catastrophe, suggests that it is necessary to accept the noospheric thinking code and, among other changes the organisational structure of the United Nations Organization (UNO), and the relationships between countries.
Modified water
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: April 2007

Discusses the phenomenon of biological effects of homeopathic “high potencies” and reviews recent literature on the subject.
Fuzzy monotone functions and applications
Authors: Lee Edward T. , Chou Te‐Shun
Published: April 2007

The grade of membership function for fuzzy monotone functions is defined and investigated. An algorithm for finding the membership value is presented. A minterm even function and minterm odd function are defined and studied. It is found that these two functions are the two most alternation functions. The relationships with threshold functions are also presented. In addition, three ways to implement a fuzzy monotone increasing function are investigated. Applications to function representation, data compression and error detection are illustrated. The results have useful applications in fuzzy logic, expert systems, fuzzy expert systems, and also management of uncertainty.
Information granulation and signal quantization
Authors: Pedrycz Witold , Gacek Adam
Published: April 2007

Shows that signal quantization can be conveniently captured and quantified in the language of information granules. Optimal codebooks exploited in any signal quantization (discretization) lend themselves to the underlying fundamental issues of information granulation. The paper elaborates on and contrasts between various forms of information granulation such as set theory, shadowed sets, and fuzzy sets. It is revealed that a set‐based codebook can be easily enhanced by the use of the shadowed sets. This also raises awareness about the performance of the quantization process and helps increase its quality by defining additional elements of the codebook and specifying their range of applicability. We show how different information granules contribute to the performance of signal quantification. The role of clustering techniques giving rise to information granules is also analyzed. Some pertinent theoretical results are derived. It is shown that fuzzy sets defined in terms of piecewise linear membership functions with 1/2 overlap between any two adjacent terms of the codebook give rise to the effect of lossless quantization. The study addresses both scalar and multivariable quantization. Numerical studies are included to help illustrate the quantization mechanisms carried out in the setting of granular computing.
Blown‐up theory of evolution science and fundamental problems of the first push
Authors: OuYang Shoucheng , Lin Yi , Wang Zhong , Peng Taoyong
Published: April 2007

The reason why evolutions have been studied as a special science is that there exist reversal and transitional changes – blown‐ups – in the objective reality. However, the first‐push dynamical system has not been able to provide a mechanical explanation for these dramatic changes. Provides an exploratory explanation on how to understand “time and space” and some fundamental problems of evolutions, based on a discussion of problems existing in the first‐push system. In addition, points out the fact that the essence of the evolution science is that the concept of spinning materials is not an extrapolation or continuation of the first‐push system. What needs to be emphasized is that the presented work was originally based on first‐hand scientific practice and has been successfully evidenced by practical applications.
Elements of a cybernetic epistemology
Authors: Nechansky Helmut
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper analyzes how two (or more) controllers can interact with just one controlled system. This is a basic situation in biology and sociology, but was practically never investigated. Control theory usually investigates only the interaction of one controller with one controlled system, i.e. how a goal‐orientated system can dominate a niche.

Design/methodology/approach

All factors determining the behavior of two feedback systems acting upon just one controlled system are analyzed systematically.

Findings

The analysis shows that there are just three possibilities of interaction, i.e. conflict, hierarchy or cooperation. With the well‐known domination of a niche, this gives just four modes of coexistence for goal‐orientated systems. It is shown how these modes of coexistence surface in psychology, group dynamics and politics, but has been studied so far under totally different headings.

Practical implications

Repeated patterns of shifts in power relations can be explained by distinguishing two power cycles. Both lead to hierarchies – either to forcefully end conflict or to peacefully ensure cooperation – which bear in them the source for future conflict. Additionally the investigation allows to identify unsolvable conflicts.

Originality/value

The paper shows how a cybernetic analysis of decision making allows to find a unifying approach to different concepts in psychology, group dynamics and politics. Such it provides elements for a cybernetic epistemology.
The scientific methodology in the light of cybernetics
Authors: Masani P.R.
Published: April 2007

Presents the scientific methodology from the enlarged cybernetical perspective that recognizes the anisotropy of time, the probabilistic character of natural laws, and the entry that the incomplete determinism in Nature opens to the occurrence of innovation, growth, organization, teleology communication, control, contest and freedom. The new tier to the methodological edifice that cybernetics provides stands on the earlier tiers, which go back to the Ionians (c. 500 BC). However, the new insights reveal flaws in the earlier tiers, and their removal strengthens the entire edifice. The new concepts of teleological activity and contest allow the clear demarcation of the military sciences as those whose subject matter is teleological activity involving contest. The paramount question “what ought to be done”, outside the empirical realm, is embraced by the scientific methodology. It also embraces the cognitive sciences that ask how the human mind is able to discover, and how the sequence of discoveries might converge to a true description of reality.
Neural Networks as Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Virgil Negoita Constantin
Published: April 2007

Any fuzzy system is a knowledge‐based system which implies an inference engine. Proposes neural networks as a means of performing the inference. Using the Theorem of Representation proposes an encoding scheme that allows the neural network to be trained to perform modus ponens.
A pansystems clustering approach and hierarchical analysis of complex systems
Authors: Tingquan Zan , Xuemou Wu
Published: April 2007

By use of equivalence operators δi and semiequivalence operators εi, studies the clustering problems of complex systems. Presents the δ (1,3) disconnection principle, dual‐transformation principle for analysing and operating complex systems and large‐scale systems. Discusses interconnectivity and disconnectivity of complex systems. Presents some related theorems. Discusses hierarchy of systems according to the pansystems clustering approach proposed.
Formaldehyde revisited
Authors: Smith Alan , Russell Julian
Published: April 2007

Reviews some of the reactions of formaldehyde ‐ an important building block in the manufacture of speciality, performance chemicals and polymers ‐ with the intention of stimulating research into further uses of formaldehyde.
Laboratory viscometry ‐ a review
Authors: Green G.R.M.
Published: April 2007

Discusses the various methods that are used for measuring the viscosity of paints and inks in the laboratory environment and suggests what equipment is most suitable for different applications. Identifies the most common sources of errors in making measurements and emphasizes the importance of calibration in obtaining accurate and reproducible results.
CFC replacement solvents in aerosols
Authors: Schreiber Sten P.
Published: April 2007

Briefly discusses the search for alternatives to CFCs in aerosols for precision cleaning applications. Gives properties of several solvents used in cleaning applications. Considers five key parameters for selecting a solvent for aerosol applications.
Segment intenders and non‐intenders in China’s property market: a hybrid approach
Authors: Wang Charlie C.L. , Chan Allan K.K. , Xiong Chen Zhen
Published: April 2007

This study employed psychological variables such as consumer sentiment and attitude to debt as complementary measures to traditionally used consumer demographic or economic variables in predicting housing purchase intention with a consumer sample in China. The result indicates that psychological factors add incremental explanatory and predictive power to traditionally used demographic variables. Results from discriminant analysis showed that, except for household income level, psychological factors were better than demographic variables in differentiating intenders from non‐intenders in China’s emerging property market. Conceptual contributions and managerial implications of the study are discussed.
Causality
Authors: Janes Joseph
Published: April 2007

This column continues a series on topics in research methodology, statistics and data analysis techniques for the library and information sciences. It discusses the concept of causality, the elements of an argument to demonstrate causality, and its importance in the research context.
Penn State’s new “cybrary” at Harrisburg – a talk with Dr Harold Shill
Authors: Boone Morell D.
Published: April 2007

The development of the “cybrary” within the last 15 years represents both a conceptual and a structural change in traditional library design. Clients now conceive of libraries as more than book repositories, and expect that planners will incorporate many of the multifaceted features they want in their designs. The challenge for many planners rests, however, in bringing the design plan to realization. In this article, the author discusses these issues with Dr Harold Shill of PSU‐Harrisburg, who was responsible for coordinating its new library design and construction project.
OAI and NASA’s scientific and technical information
Authors: Nelson Michael L. , Harrison Terry L. , Rocker JoAnne
Published: April 2007

The Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting (OAI‐PMH) is an evolving protocol and philosophy regarding interoperability for digital libraries (DLs). Previously, “distributed searching” models were popular for DL interoperability. However, experience has shown distributed searching systems across large numbers of DLs to be difficult to maintain in an Internet environment. The OAI‐PMH is a move away from distributed searching, focusing on the arguably simpler model of “metadata harvesting”. We detail NASA’s involvement in defining and testing the OAI‐PMH and experience to date with adapting existing NASA distributed searching DLs (such as the NASA Technical Report Server) to use the OAI‐PMH and metadata harvesting. We discuss some of the entirely new DL projects that the OAI‐PMH has made possible, such as the Technical Report Interchange Project. We explain the strategic importance of the OAI‐PMH to the mission of NASA’s Scientific and Technical Information Program.
Case study: Partnering strategies in a bio tech. world: the case of Dairyland Seed Company
Authors: Leach Mark P. , Mesquita Luiz , Downey W. David
Published: April 2007

Large agricultural producers often demand seed with high yielding genetics along with specialty traits specific to their particular needs. Dairyland Seed Company prides itself on its superior genetics and a research program that adds specialty traits while retaining the qualities of the original variety. Dairyland sources specialty trait technology from two competing suppliers – DuPont and Monsanto. Each of these suppliers is currently pursuing a strategy of forward integration through aggressive marketing programs and acquisitions. The implications for access to future technologies and long‐term survival are profound, and leave Dairyland and other smaller seed companies with strategic decisions to make. This paper examines a channel of distribution for agricultural biotechnologies and the decisions faced by a small, reputable seed company when dealing with its large multinational biotechnology suppliers. Who should Dairyland be partnering with, and can Dairyland balance supplier dependency in an attempt to avoid being eliminated from the channel?
A stress management course to prevent teacher distress
Authors: Neves de Jesus Saul , Conboy Joseph
Published: April 2007

The question of teacher motivation is of paramount concern for educational leaders and managers. Both the commonly observed deficiency in teacher motivation and the abundance of teacher stress are serious problems that can be mitigated through teacher education. This study describes a relational‐training stress‐management course that was prepared and implemented in an attempt to reduce teacher stress. The 30‐hour programme was divided into ten sessions that included thematic exercises on a variety of topics: sharing professional experiences with colleagues, identifying specific stress factors and possible coping strategies, replacing irrational beliefs with more appropriate beliefs, analysing strategies for dealing with student discipline and motivation problems in the classroom, and practising assertiveness and relaxation. Following the course, participating teachers showed a significant decrease in their irrational beliefs and professional distress, as well as an increase in professional motivation and the perception of wellbeing.
Broad‐based consensus building
Authors: Berman Evan M. , Werther William B.
Published: April 2007

Discusses the purposes, structure, processes, and pitfalls associated with government‐business alliances built through very broad‐based strategic planning. The need for these aliances often arises from issues or threats that neither party can resolve by itself. Geovernment and business alliances exist in all societies, varying only in frequency of use and effectiveness. Very broad‐based strategic planning (VBBSP) efforts seek a broad consensus through an inclusionary approach that reaches out to embrace representatives of the relevant constituencies. Paralleling the examination of VBBSP skills and efforts, addresses the use of VBBSP approaches as a technique for developing an organizational vision among various constituents who make up an organization. Concludes not only that government‐business alliances are common and essential but also that VBBSP may be the most effective way to address the different processes and outcomes related to these alliances. VBBSP also offers considerable promise for building intra‐organizational consensus.
The changing nature of Irish voluntary social service organizations
Authors: Jaffro Gwen
Published: April 2007

Reviews the development of the Irish voluntary sector and examines the unique characteristics of the legal framework in which voluntary organizations operate and the funding and staffing arrangements. Focuses on recent changes in the relationship between the state and organizations. Speculates on the future of these organizations by examining issues such as contracting, cohesiveness and general evolutionary trends.
The content and disclosure of Australian corporate environmental policies
Authors: Tilt Carol Ann
Published: April 2007

Studies of environmental disclosure levels in companies’ annual reports have shown an increasing interest in the environment. A major part of this interest has become the development of a corporate environmental policy (CEP). This study considers the relationship between CEPs of Australian public companies and subsequent reporting and disclosure related to that policy found in their annual reports. The results show that Australian companies are surprisingly behind other countries in environmental reporting trends, and there are some major differences between the content of their environmental policies and their disclosures. Of particular importance is the finding that while companies appear to be reporting on the environment internally, they place a low priority on providing environmental performance data to external parties.
Japanese healthcare quality improvement
Authors: Øvretveit John
Published: April 2007

Are there lessons for the West from the way Japanese managers and healthcare workers use quality methods in healthcare? This paper describes the Japanese approach to quality in healthcare by drawing on a research visit and published research. It describes the similarities and differences between Japanese and other public healthcare systems and the factors leading to the application of quality methods in Japan. The paper discusses why quality methods have been used less in healthcare than in industry, and the methodology of quality circles. It describes why total quality methods have not been adopted, the approach of “evidence based participatory quality improvement” which is being developed and proposes that western healthcare can learn from the methodical “bottom‐up” introduction of quality methods as a foundation for TQM.
Small hospitals and performance measurement: implications and strategies
Authors: Lied Terry R.
Published: April 2007

Hospitals are held increasingly accountable for the services they provide. While small hospitals may often lack resources to meet performance measurement mandates, generally, they are not exempt from requirements to submit performance data to accrediting and regulatory bodies. Presents an approach to obtaining, developing, and evaluating performance indicators that may be useful to small hospitals in meeting their mandates for public accountability and quality improvement. Takes into account resource limitations faced by these hospitals, both human and technological, and suggests a number of measures that are potentially useful for demonstrating accountability, benchmarking, and quality improvement.
Should We Have a Meeting
Authors: Rae Leslie
Published: April 2007

Discusses whether meetings are necessary. Types of meeting are analysed
and alternatives are presented.
Should the Labour Movement Buy TQM?
Authors: Parker Mike , Slaughter Jane
Published: April 2007

Total quality management (TQM) is usually presented as a proven “win‐win” solution to the problems of private and public sector organizations. However, actual TQM programmes (under a variety of names) have a poor track record in their own terms and a strong faddish appearance. Despite the record and the sharp disagreements among quality gurus, unions are frequently presented with finished programmes requiring major union and employee concessions. Further, despite TQM’s claimed concern for the welfare, dignity, and creative input of employees, the reality of TQM is a model which places most employees last. Beneath the rhetoric of many TQM programmes is a system of management control and unappealing work organization best described as “Management‐by‐stress”. Unions need to understand the basic TQM themes, examine their impact on employees and their unions, and propose alternatives which start with basic social needs.
The effects of bump height on the reliability of ACF in flip‐chip
Authors: Wu C.M.L. , Liu Johan , Yeung N.H.
Published: April 2007

In this study, flip‐chip (FC) assemblies on printed circuit board (PCB) and flex, with bump heights of 4, 20 and 40μm, and with a constant copper pad height were compared by modelling of the bonding process and of thermal cycling from –40 to 1258C. The stress distributions of the assemblies were analysed and it was found that the largest stresses occurred for the smallest bump height. The stresses in the anisotropic conductive film for the FC‐on‐flex assembly were also found to be generally larger than for the FC‐on‐PCB.
Maximising throughput of the component assembly process
Authors: Nesbit Alan
Published: April 2007

This paper considers how the throughput of the component assembly process can be maximised by the use of software tools. Optimum results are achieved if the tools provide an automatic, detailed analysis of the assembly process while providing the engineer with the opportunity to use his experience to further enhance any automatically generated results. The tools must consider the assembly process as a whole, rather than each stage in the process independently, in order to gain maximum benefit. Finally, the tools must be flexible enough to be able to perform an accurate analysis for all assembly environments.
Application of Deming’s principles in the management of change ‐ a Hong Kong experience
Authors: Lo Wai‐Kwok
Published: April 2007

Describes how a Hong Kong company improves its operations and manages the improvement through the application of Deming’s principles. Gives the description in terms of Deming’s 14 quality principles. Discusses how the principles are applied within the company, and how they help change management. This case study clearly shows that improving quality can lead to substantial bottom‐line business success and growth. However, to achieve this success is a difficult path that must be consistently followed. Suggests and demonstrates practical methods to manage such changes. Such methods are applicable and transferable to other organizations, in particular those operating within a similar cultural environment to that described in the paper.
Learning theory and the design of training in a health authority
Authors: Currie Graeme
Published: April 2007

Gives an explanation of the salient factors which affected the
design of a training intervention aimed at clinicians in West Birmingham
Health Authority. Discusses the theoretical considerations relevant to
learning in an organization, using a case study to illustrate.
New developments in hospital management
Authors: Welch John R. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: April 2007

Changes in the health care environment over the past ten years have
prompted changes in the way hospitals are being managed. The rising cost
of health care has affected Medicare reimbursement, caused business to
be a discerning selector of medical care, and has given birth to
alternative forms of health care delivery. All these conditions have
resulted in decreased revenue and increased competition for hospitals.
Focuses on what hospitals have done to adapt to these changing
conditions: cost containment, marketing strategies, and human resource
management, since these areas have undergone the most meaningful
changes.
Governance structures, director independence and corporate performance in the UK
Authors: Weir Charlie , Laing David
Published: April 2007

A number of Committees have been set up in recent years to investigate the governance of UK quoted companies. The key one was the Cadbury Committee, which recommended a number of governance structures as examples of best practice. These included the separation of the posts of CEO and chairman, a significant representation of non‐executive directors, the importance of non‐executive director independence and the setting up of board subcommittees. This study finds that there has been widespread adoption of the recommended governance structures. However, there is no clear relationship between governance structures and corporate performance. This raises questions about the most effective type of governance mechanism and whether or not the prescriptive recommendations of Cadbury should be replaced with a more flexible approach.
Discharge in the electric industry
Authors: Yocom Dennis , Helms Marilyn M.
Published: April 2007

The comparative potential impact of electric restructuring laws and attendant regulations on electric utilities and ultimately on their collective human resources in Ireland, Germany and in the Tennessee Valley, USA, is the focus of this research. It includes personal observations of utilities in both EU countries and in the Tennessee Valley as well as personal interviews with utility officials by Dennis Yocom, who has been associated with the electric utility industry for 27 years.
Teleworking: an assessment of the benefits and challenges
Authors: Morgan Robert E.
Published: April 2007

Of all the changes in work over the last century, arguably the greatest impact upon the way work is done can be attributed to the exponential growth of flexible working patterns. The basis of flexible working is captured by a BT plc strap‐line: work is not a place where you go but rather something you do! As the renowned futurist, Alvin Toffler, has indicated – “work is not necessarily going to take place in offices or factories. It is going to take place everywhere, anytime” (Toffler, A., The Third Wave, Morrow, New York, NY, 1980). There is a wealth of guidance available on how to improve the flexibility available within organizations from the enormous range of “flexible working solutions” books through to the consultancies that now include flexible working as prominent packages in their service portfolio. In this paper, the teleworking means of flexible working is explored and an assessment is made of its growth, advantages and disadvantages, implementation programs for successful teleworking and a case assessing the advances that BT plc have made in becoming a teleworking organization.
Business agility and internal marketing
Authors: Morgan Robert E.
Published: April 2007

There is a concept known as the information technology paradox – where many senior managers in organisations recognise the worth of an effective information technology (IT) function but few truly understand its potential role and contribution in enhancing business value. Many reasons account for this paradox, which some have described as a “gap” or a poor relationship between the IT function and the rest of the organisation. The prevailing view is that it is not so much a question of technology content as technology context and process that provide the source to this gap. This paper focuses on the nature of this relationship and develops the concept of marketing the information systems/services (IS) function to its internal customers – internal marketing. Fundamentally, the same principles which are used to market solutions to the organisation's external customers can be employed to better segment, target and position the IS solutions to the internal customer base and these issues are explored.
The essence of global political economy
Authors: McNutt Patrick
Published: April 2007

Evaluates the interplay between market forces and political realities as the economies of Europe become part of a new global order. Capital is becoming more mobile and business increasingly international and borderless. Modern management seek opportunities to reduce costs of production. The transnational firm (TNC), a globally integrated organizational network, has emerged in this global search for low‐cost production bases. Consequently the realm of European economic policy analysis is now very much couched within a political economy dimension which is determining the direction of economic activity at the global level with ramifications for the European economy and its nation‐states. The hallmarks of that political dimension include the interrelationships between sovereign governments and the transnational corporations and the creation of geo‐political entities like the European Union. Impelled by global competition and the power of business, the drive towards European integration has furnished much‐needed debate on the effectiveness of indigenous government policies on their respective economies and on the relatively greater impact of modern corporations on the economy.
The role of women in Europe
Authors: Helms Marilyn M. , Guffey Cynthia J.
Published: April 2007

With major events including the European Economic Community, German unification and the fall of the former Soviet Union, there is an increased reality of a large united Europe. With these societal and political changes comes change in the role of women. As the number of women entering the labour market increases, the effect of job equality must be investigated. Examines the role of women in the European workforce. Discusses areas such as promotion, mentoring, education, compensation and reform recommendations. Shows that four key economic, demographic, and organizational trends are creating positive effects for women in the European labour force.
The European digital money picture: Europay’s role and strategy in developing the market
Authors: Dutrieux Marc
Published: April 2007

Explores the rapidly changing world of electronic purse transactions and presents a case study of the development strategy employed by Europay International. Considers the impending convergence of European standards and the role of the newly formed CEPSCo Corporation charged with managing the Common Electronic Purse Specification as a blueprint for purse implementations throughout Europe and beyond. Looks at how digital money fits into Europe’s payment industry, identifies common trends and highlights the decisions which must be made by the banking community in order to realize the fastest return on their chip investment.
Fire hood retains fire protective qualities after wear and washing
Authors: House James R. , Squire James D.
Published: April 2007

Royal Navy (RN) fire fighters have recently been provided with a new two‐ply hood made from 20 per cent polybenzimidizole/80 per cent permanent flame retardant Rayon (fibre made from regenerated cellulose). After 15‐20 days of use during live‐fire training (and regular washing) the new type hood appeared to be suffering from excessive wear and there was concern that the level of protection might have decreased. To examine this, 25 new and 25 used hoods (worn and washed approximately 15‐20 times) were exposed to flame, five each at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 s using a flame manikin head to ascertain the predicted burn injuries. The new hood was shown to provide excellent protection against the most severe flame engulfment to which RN personnel might accidentally be exposed. There was no evidence that the protection afforded by the hoods was reduced by prolonged use and washing and therefore it was safe for the “new‐type” hood to remain in‐service.
Use of mathematical programming for workplace design in sewing rooms
Authors: Gotlih Karl
Published: April 2007

Shows an approach to workplace design, employing a well‐known prescribed technological operation. Using a non‐linear optimization method, searches for the minimal value of the objective function with respect to the constraints determined by the human locomotive sytem and by the prescribed technological operation of sewing cloth parts. Demonstrates the usefulness of this approach with a sewing example, where the reference task is the movement of the operator’s arms with the defined velocity profile.
Rheological properties of threads: their influence on dynamic loads in the sewing process
Authors: Gersak Jelka
Published: April 2007

Presents the influence of rheological properties of a sewing thread on its dynamical loads in a stitch formation process, or on change of thread strength as a consequence of dynamical loads in the sewing process, respectively. Research work shows the change in thread strength, as a result of the stitch formation process forming dynamic loads of a thread, as a function of rheological properties of a thread.
Marker making in small clothing companies ‐ Part 1
Authors: Hands Cathy , Hergeth Helmut H.A. , Hudson Peyton
Published: April 2007

Describes the history of CAD systems as well as their benefits and costs for a clothing company. Presents and analyses results of a survey concerning the use of CAD systems for marker making in the clothing industry of the United States. Describes and evaluates the functions of CAD marker making with the help of a case study.
Portable computer measuring systems for automatic process parameter acquisition in garment sewing processes
Authors: Rogale Dubravko , Dragčević Zvonko
Published: April 2007

A measuring system for automatic process parameter acquisition in garment sewing operations has been presented. The measuring equipment is based upon the usage of a very powerful portable notebook IBM compatible personal computer, equipped with an AD converter, measuring instruments and adequate software packages for data storing and analysis. Characteristics of measuring instruments and sensors have also been given, together with measuring process description, all connected with two independent video‐camera systems, working in two planes, used for working operation analysis at workplaces in garment sewing operations.
Viscoelastic parameter determination for a yarn
Authors: Gotlih Karl
Published: April 2007

Here parameter determination of a chosen rheological model of a yarn on the basis of the experimental results is shown. The Kelvin‐Voigt linear viscoelastic model of a solid material was chosen. The real yarn was used in the tear experiment. The knowledge of the stress‐strain curve is the measurement for the determination of the rheological parameter. The calculation of the Kelvin‐Voigt’s parameters, with respect to the known stress‐strain curve of the real yarn, is done with an optimisation method. In this numerical procedure the area between the response of the real yarn and the yarn model is minimised. The optimisation results show good coincidence of the real mechanical properties of the real yarn with the Kelvin‐Voigt rheological model. The model of the yarn enables simulation of real processes, which is easier because observation of the real systems are then not necessary, which is easier, more transparent and cheaper.
ISO 9000 and quality emphasis ‐ An empirical study of front‐room versus back‐room dominant service industries
Authors: Dick Gavin , Gallimore Kevin , Brown Jane C.
Published: April 2007

This paper seeks to illuminate how the emphasis on quality dimensions differs in service firms dependent on the size of their back‐room activity. It examines how that emphasis differs with Quality Certification (QCert). The research examines the relative importance attached by the chief executives of 93 large service organisations to both internal and external dimensions of quality. It analyses the relationship of these quality dimensions to the importance placed on the possession of QCert. The effect of process structure is explored by categorising service firms as being in front‐room versus back‐room dominant industrial sectors. The research findings provide empirical evidence that service firms who rate the possession of QCert as important, place much more emphasis on quality, and have a balanced perspective where internal and external quality are both emphasised. In contrast, service firms that do not promote QCert, emphasise quality less. In the absence of QCert, we find clear differentiation in how quality is conceptualised in front‐room versus back‐room dominant industrial sectors.
“Scalability”: the paradox of human resources in e‐commerce
Authors: Hallowell Roger
Published: April 2007

This paper develops a framework exploring the question, “How does service affect the economics of e‐commerce?” Development of the framework requires an understanding of the different forms service takes in e‐commerce. These are described as “virtual” (either pure information or automated) and “physical” (requiring some degree of human intervention). The framework suggests that because the nature and quantity of physical service necessary to deliver value to customers influences the quantity of human intervention required, it also influences a firm’s ratio of variable to fixed costs, which alters its “scalability”. The paradox comes in that while reduced scalability is viewed negatively by many venture capitalists and proponents of e‐commerce, the cause of that reduction in scalability, human intervention, may help a firm to differentiate its offering to customers, thus providing a source of competitive advantage.