bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A methodology for design for warranty with focus on reliability and warranty policies
Authors: Ambad Prashant M. , Kulkarni Makarand S. 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to develop a conceptual framework that integrates the technology and commercial issues early at the design stage to minimize warranty costs in the most effective and efficient manner and also to develop a model for optimization of warranty with specific focus on reliability and warranty policies.Design/methodology/approachThe critical issues in warranty are addressed which affect the warranty cost. An optimization model to achieve multiple goals like minimization of the warranty cost and improving the reliability of the product is developed using genetic algorithm as a solution methodology. The model is illustrated with a real case of automobile engine.FindingsThe results of the optimization show improvement in mean time between failures (MTBF) which results due to improvement in the product reliability and also the targeted warranty cost is achieved.Research limitations/implicationsThe model developed needs to be further extended with inclusion of additional decision variable such as support level offered and more objectives such as attractiveness of the warranty from the customer's view point and spares cost to the customer.Originality/valueThe paper provides the help to the designers at the design stage to take the decisions related to warranty in deciding the warranty parameters.
An investigation of voluntary disclosure by Kuwaiti Shariah‐compliant companies
Authors: Al‐Shammari Bader 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to measure the extent of voluntary disclosure in the 2009 annual reports of 108 Shariah‐compliant companies listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange. The study aims to investigate three categories of voluntary disclosure: overall, conventional and Islamic disclosure.Design/methodology/approachVoluntary disclosure was measured using a self‐constructed index consisting of 132 items overall, 86 for conventional and 46 for Islamic information items. Annual reports were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t‐tests.FindingsResults suggest that the mean overall voluntary disclosure by Shariah‐compliant companies is 15 percent, but 17 percent and 13 percent for the conventional and Islamic items, respectively. Voluntary disclosure of conventional items is comparable to extant studies, and higher than Islamic items.Research limitation/implicationsThe study uses annual reports from 2009 because they were the most recent data available on the listed companies at the beginning of the study. Since this study was undertaken before the Shariah Advisory Council of the Capital Market Authority was established on January 1, 2012, this imposes a limitation. Future study should replicate this study to assess differences with the existence of the Council.Practical implicationsThe findings provide evidence that Shariah‐complaint companies lack voluntary disclosure, especially Islamic disclosure information. As a result, the findings should be useful to lawmakers in Kuwait for improving overall disclosure practices by Shariah‐compliant companies. Preparers may use the findings to match the amount of information in their annual reports with other companies to ensure capital sourcing. Investors may use the findings for understanding disclosure behavior of Shariah‐compliant companies in Kuwait. Such findings may assist them to diversify investment portfolios.Originality/valueThis study contributes to extending the Kuwaiti literature on disclosure, and fills a gap in empirical studies on Shariah‐compliant disclosure practices.
The Islamic gracious monetary instruments: a theoretical approach
Authors: Ismal Rifki 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThis paper attempts to construct Islamic gracious monetary instruments namely Qardh hassan, Waqf and Gift central bank certificates. The certificates do not only function as monetary instruments per se, but also give economic and social benefit for the public such as the needy. However, the central bank and its counterparts still need to manage the funds professionally to produce profit, maintain the values of the funds and prevent business losses. As such, this theoretical study aims to offer alternative Islamic monetary instruments for the central bank to manage liquidity and especially to improve the welfare of the people.Design/methodology/approachThe paper exercises three Islamic gracious monetary instruments (Qardh hassan, Waqf and Gift central bank certificates) for both investment based (Mudarabah and Musharakah) financing and trading based (Ijarah and Murabahah) financing. Every instrument is elaborated mathematically to analyze its economic impact, treatment of profit and loss coming from the business and status of the funds. Finally, the paper compares every gracious certificate and explains the terms and conditions to use them optimally.FindingsThe exercises find unique characteristics, operations and contribution of every Islamic gracious monetary instrument to the economy. Based on economic impact, nature of the contracts and management of the funds, the central bank can now have alternative Islamic monetary instruments to be offered to the generous depositors to improve the welfare of the people particularly the needy.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper only assesses the feasibility of three Islamic gracious monetary instruments. There might be more alternatives of Islamic gracious monetary instruments to be considered and elaborated.Originality/valueTo the best of author's knowledge, this is the first paper to try to exercise the alternative of the Islamic gracious monetary instruments.
Analysing challenges, barriers and CSF of egov adoption
Authors: Rana Nripendra P. , Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Williams Michael D. 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to systematically review and analyse the critical challenges and barriers of e‐government adoption. Such review aims to suggest the salient facts about the issues of successful implementation or adoption of the e‐government services under different circumstances to the researchers.Design/methodology/approachA total of 78 relevant research papers reviewing and analysing the challenges, barriers, and critical success factors were selected from a set of overall 448 articles on e‐government adoption research. These studies were comprehensively reviewed to examine some of the most significant supply and demand‐side challenges, barriers, and critical success factors explored by different studies in this context.FindingsThe findings indicated that technological barriers, lack of security and privacy, lack of trust, lack of resources, digital divide, poor management and infrastructure, lack of awareness, legal barriers, lack of IT infrastructure, and resilience were among some of the most commonly experienced challenges and barriers across the relevant studies. Moreover, it was also found that challenges and barriers associated with supply‐side (i.e. implementation) (C=53) were almost three times to the one applied to the demand‐side (i.e. adoption) (C=18). Furthermore, it was also found that citizen's satisfaction, information accuracy, security, and privacy were some of the critical factors for the success of e‐government initiatives.Research limitations/implicationsThis research only reviews the challenges, barriers and critical success factors and leaving apart many other research themes such as impact, digital divide, security, privacy, trust, and risk of e‐government adoption. Moreover, the theoretical and methodological paradigm of this research have not been explored.Originality/valueThis paper presents a comprehensive review of the challenges, barriers, and critical success factors of the e‐government adoption research both with regard to supply as well as demand side. Such review allows us to provide not only a brief account of the issues experienced in the e‐government research, but also prescribes the guidelines for the governments to consider certain facts before successfully implement their e‐government initiatives. Such a comprehensive review of e‐government adoption literature has not been performed earlier.
Financial statement analysis of logistics service providers: ways of enhancing performance
Authors: Hofmann Erik , Lampe Kerstin 
Published: May 2013

Purpose
– Despite the relevance of financial information relating to logistics service providers (LSPs), recent research has paid little attention to the financial analysis of LSPs. The aim of this paper is to examine the balance sheet structure of LSPs in order to find out if there are differences between single providers or defined LSP groups (clusters), respectively. Furthermore, the dependency of asset, capital and liquidity structures on LSPs specific characteristics is pointed out. Finally, we show which financial indicators positively influence profitability.

Design/methodology/approach
– A total of 150 quoted LSPs from all over the world, allocated to six different clusters depending on scope of service were examined. A detailed balance sheet analysis using contingency theory, complemented by a correlation analysis, provides information about the financial structure, similarities and differences within and in-between the LSP clusters.

Findings
– It was found that there are many differences regarding the financial structures of LSPs. The asset and liquidity structure of LSPs show significant differences, while the capital structure is mostly homogeneous. Profitability is achieved in various ways: Focusing on high net profit margin or asset turnover rates.

Research limitations/implications
– Only quoted LSPs are analyzed. With this broad research approach the authors point out the range of possibilities for financial statement analysis of LSPs and demonstrate the potential for future research.

Practical implications
– Financial analysis yields information for making strategic decisions including organic growth, outsourcing, mergers and acquisitions or cooperation between LSPs.

Originality/value
– This paper contributes to further performance examinations of LSPs by providing a profound financial statement analysis with potential benefits for logistics executives, analysts and researchers.
Partner management – managing service partnerships in the supply chain – a systemic perspective
Authors: Zybell Uwe 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of the research is to shed light on the question of how elements of a partnership system interact to provide a basis for an enhanced performance management framework.Design/methodology/approachA structured literature review is followed by a longitudinal case study (action research), which combines qualitative and quantitative analyses. Observations over time, documents such as contracts, joint agreements, meeting agendas and minutes, personal conversations and in‐depth interviews were mainly used, with quantitative measurement of operational and relational performance. For an in‐depth analysis of interdependencies, a systemic perspective based on an interaction analysis of relevant elements of the partner management system was adopted.FindingsThe paper draws upon real‐life data from service partnerships in the automotive industry. Combining a longitudinal multi‐dyadic approach with action‐based research makes it a unique opportunity to reveal insights into the development of performance‐based partnerships. The paper illustrates enablers, limitations, and conflicting circumstances in partnering highlighting the role of incentives and derives propositions for a comprehensive framework for a performance‐oriented partner management.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to the limited number of case studies, this research is considered mainly exploratory. The presented case study is an essentially illustrative example of the implementation and development of performance‐oriented partnerships. The insights provide a better and deeper understanding of the dynamics of forming partnerships in reality, especially limitations and pertinent expectations regarding performance management in partnerships. There remains a need for further research for success‐related dimensions and antecedents of partnering concepts in a general industry approach.Originality/valueThe paper draws upon real‐life data from service partnerships in the automotive industry. Combining a longitudinal multi‐dyadic approach with action‐based research makes it a unique opportunity to reveal insights into the development of performance‐based partnerships. The paper illustrates enablers, limitations, and conflicting circumstances in partnering highlighting the role of incentives and derives propositions for a comprehensive framework for a performance‐oriented partner management.
Performance‐based logistics: a portfolio for contracting military supply
Authors: Glas Andreas , Hofmann Erik , Eßig Michael 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to analyse military logistics providing a decision support instrument for contracting in defence supply chains.Design/methodology/approachThis instrument – the Performance‐Based Logistics (PBL) portfolio – is developed following the contingency approach. Qualitative interviews and illustrative examples from Germany, Austria and Switzerland are used to validate the portfolio.FindingsThe proposed portfolio examines a military demand in respect of its required effectiveness (robustness and resilience), and the suppliers' ability to influence efficiency (forecast and supply risk). In combination, the contingencies are used to recommend three alternative types of PBL contracting.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is based on conceptual work with illustrative case examples. Therefore, although the authors believe that the PBL portfolio provides useful guidance for further research, the empirical applicability of this instrument must be proven.Originality/valueThe research on PBL is gaining importance, but still there remains a deficiency of theoretical grounding and management instruments. This study is a first approach to use the contingency framework for developing such an instrument. The value of the PBL portfolio lies in supporting normative decision making for contracting military supply.
Neutralizing workplace bullying: the buffering effects of contextual factors
Authors: Cooper‐Thomas Helena , Gardner Dianne , O'Driscoll Michael , Catley Bevan , Bentley Tim , Trenberth Linda 
Published: May 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the direct and buffering effects of three workplace contextual factors – constructive leadership, perceived organizational support, and organizational anti‐bullying initiatives – on bullying and its relationships with relevant criteria. Further, the paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of organizational initiatives against bullying as perceived by targets and non‐targets.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 727 employees in nine New Zealand healthcare organizations. Of these, 133 employees were classified as bullied, as they had experienced at least two negative acts per week over the last six months.FindingsCorrelations revealed negative relationships between the three contextual work factors and bullying. Moderated regression showed that perceived organizational support buffered the relationship of bullying with self‐rated job performance, and that organizational initiatives against bullying buffered the relationship of bullying with both wellbeing and organizational commitment. Targets consistently gave lower ratings than non‐targets of the effectiveness of organizational initiatives to address bullying.Originality/valueThere is scant research on workplace factors that may reduce bullying and buffer its negative effects. This paper makes an original contribution in providing evidence of the importance of three contextual factors, and of buffering effects for perceived organizational support and organizational initiatives against bullying.
Clinical and imaging features of male breast disease, with pathological correlation: A pictorial essay
Authors: Ng Angeline Mei Lian , Dissanayake Deepthi , Metcalf Cecily , Wylie Elizabeth 
Published: May 2013

SummaryThe majority of male breast diseases are benign. The most common is gynaecomastia. Although it is rare, the most critical diagnosis is a malignancy. Radiologists are generally less familiar with breast disease in males compared with females. This pictorial review will highlight the ultrasonographic, mammographic and pathological features of a spectrum of benign and malignant male breast diseases. This includes gynaecomastia, fat necrosis, lipoma, epidermoid cyst, subareolar abscess, chronic inflammation, melanoma and ductal carcinoma.
Future Saudi doctors and cancer patients agree cancer patients should be informed about their cancer
Authors: Al‐Amri Ali M 
Published: May 2013

AbstractAimTo compare attitudes of Saudi medical students and Saudi cancer patients towards disclosure of cancer information and to examine whether differences exist between students and patients, level of education or gender and region of residence.MethodsData were collected from 384 students and 368 patients using a nine‐question questionnaire on attitudes to cancer.ResultsAlmost all patients (98%) wanted to receive all the information should they get cancer compared with 93% of students (P = 0.001) and almost no patients and students wanted the information hidden (99 vs 98%, P = 0.273). If they became ill students were more likely to share information with their family and friends than patients. Fewer than 2% of patients did not want to know the benefits of chemotherapy compared to 3% of students, while 99% of patients wanted to know the side‐effects compared to 93% of students (P = 0.095 and P = 0.001, respectively). Almost all patients and students (99 vs 98%) would refuse treatment without knowing their diagnosis (P = 0.401). Patients wanted to know the prognosis more than students (98 vs 92%; P = 0.001). In all, 99% of male students wanted their cancer diagnosis disclosed compared with women (98%; P = 0.615). Gender, education level, regions and age did not affect the desire of cancer patients to know their prognosis (P = 0.275, P = 0.664, P = 0.0314 and P = 0.164, respectively).ConclusionThere was a consensus among cancer patients and medical students that cancer information, including diagnosis, treatment effects and prognosis, should be disclosed to patients.
Speed of spinal vs general anaesthesia for category‐1 caesarean section: a simulation and clinical observation‐based study
Authors: Kathirgamanathan A. , Douglas M. J. , Tyler J. , Saran S. , Gunka V. , Preston R. , Kliffer P. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryControversy exists as to whether effective spinal anaesthesia can be achieved as quickly as general anaesthesia for a category‐1 caesarean section. Sixteen consultants and three fellows in obstetric anaesthesia were timed performing spinal and general anaesthesia for category‐1 caesarean section on a simulator. The simulation time commenced upon entry of the anaesthetist into the operating theatre and finished for the spinal anaesthetic at the end of intrathecal injection and for the general anaesthetic when the anaesthetist was happy for surgery to start. In the second clinical part of the study, the time from intrathecal administration to ‘adequate surgical anaesthesia’ (defined as adequate for start of a category‐1 caesarean section) was estimated in 100 elective (category‐4) caesarean sections. The median (IQR [range]) times (min:s) for spinal procedure, onset of spinal block and general anaesthesia were 2:56 (2:32 ‐ 3:32 [1:22 ‐ 3:50]), 5:56 (4:23 ‐ 7:39 [2:9 ‐ 13:32]) and 1:56 (1:39 ‐ 2:9 [1:13 ‐ 3:12]), respectively. The limiting factor in urgent spinal anaesthesia is the unpredictable time needed for adequate surgical block to develop.
Investigating the role of computer‐supported annotation in problem‐solving‐based teaching: An empirical study of a Scratch programming pedagogy
Authors: Su Addison Y. S. , Yang Stephen J. H. , Hwang Wu‐Yuin , Huang Chester S. J. , Tern Ming‐Yu 
Published: May 2013

AbstractFor more than 2 years, Scratch programming has been taught in Taiwanese elementary schools. However, past studies have shown that it is difficult to find appropriate learning methods or tools to boost students’ Scratch programming performance. This inability to readily identify tutoring tools has become one of the primary challenges addressed in Scratch programming studies. To cope with this problem, we propose an innovative approach, which combines an Annotation‐based Scratch Programming (ASP) tool with the problem‐solving‐based teaching approach in Scratch programming pedagogy. The ASP tool was developed to enable students to create, review and share Scratch programming and homework annotations. In a quasi‐experimental study, we have evaluated Scratch programming pedagogy at a North Taiwanese elementary school to investigate the effects of instructional‐tools‐supported programming instructional modes on Scratch programming performance. The experimental results show that students who received ASP tool support in conjunction with a problem‐solving‐based teaching approach performed significantly better than the other groups. Based on our findings, the innovative approach was believed to play an important role in improving the learning patterns of younger pupils. Therefore, we suggest that teachers consider incorporating the innovative method into their teaching environments in order to boost students’ learning achievements in the area of Scratch programming and the subsequent learning process.
Women are more sensitive than men to prior trial events on the Stop‐signal task
Authors: Thakkar Katharine N. , Congdon Eliza , Poldrack Russell A. , Sabb Fred W. , London Edythe D. , Cannon Tyrone D. , Bilder Robert M. 
Published: May 2013

Sexual dimorphism in the brain and cognition is a topic of widespread interest. Many studies of sex differences have focused on visuospatial and verbal abilities, but few studies have investigated sex differences in executive functions. We examined two key components of executive function – response inhibition and response monitoring – in healthy men (n = 285) and women (n = 346) performing the Stop‐signal task. In this task, participants are required to make a key press to a stimulus, unless a tone is presented at some delay following the initial stimulus presentation; on these infrequent trials, participants are instructed to inhibit their planned response. Response inhibition was assessed with an estimate of the latency needed to inhibit a response (stop‐signal reaction time), and response monitoring was measured by calculating the degree to which participants adjusted their reaction times based on the immediately preceding trial (e.g., speeding following correct trials and slowing following errors). There were no sex differences in overall accuracy or response inhibition, but women showed greater sensitivity to trial history. Women sped up more than men following correct ‘Go’ trials, and slowed down more than men following errors. These small but statistically significant effects (Cohen's d = 0.25–0.3) suggest more flexible adjustments in speed–accuracy trade‐offs in women and greater cognitive flexibility associated with the responsive control of action.