bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) modelling of different behaviours of Ni and Ni oxide thin films for corrosion prevention in sour media
Authors: Magaña‐Zavala C.R. , Angeles‐San Martín M.E. , Rodríguez‐Gómez F.J. , Acosta D.R. , Ávila‐Godoy R. , Hidalgo‐Prada B. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is a theoretical modeling use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique for different cases that could describe the possible electrochemical behaviour on steel coated with metallic and oxide thin films (of nickel) deposited by magnetron sputtering, and compare them to know if the theoretical analysis resembles the real case. It is extremely important to clarify that such simulations do not consider the use of the constant phase element (CPE) for the analysis. Therefore, the goal for the theoretical models should be to gain acceptance in electrochemical research.Design/methodology/approachIn order to obtain the equivalent circuits to explain the different possible behaviours of the films and their protective properties in sour media, EIS experimental data were correlated with data from the simulation software. The different nickel and nickel oxide thin films were tested after their deposition by magnetron sputtering on low‐carbon steel and after they had then been exposed to the sour media electrolyte of NaCl 3 wt% + H2S (saturated).FindingsThe EIS simulation starts from the laboratory evaluation of nickel and nickel oxide thin films as anticorrosive protection for low‐carbon steel exposed to sour media. From these results, it is found that the nickel and nickel oxide films could adopt seven different behaviours, and all are possible to occur.Practical implicationsThe equivalent circuits proposed will give an insight into the corrosion phenomena for different metals coated with thin films and exposed to sour media, because all of the simulations are made on the basis of real EIS results.Originality/valueThe electrical analysis in the simulation diagram did not consider the use of the CPE to adjust the plots. In consequence, the values of all parameters for the seven different adjustments obtained through the simulations establish a reference for the explanation of the corrosion phenomena. They are also a tool with which to predict the possible behaviour of a thin film deposited on metal and exposed to electrolytes that are as aggressive as sour media.
Anticorrosive performance of titanium dioxide‐talc hybrid pigments in alkyd paint formulations for protection of steel structures
Authors: Ahmed Nivin M. , Selim Mohamed M. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the anticorrosive effects of a new pigment based on bulk of talc covered with a surface layer of titanium dioxide.Design/methodology/approachThe new pigments were characterized using different analytical and spectro‐photometric techniques. Characterization of these pigments using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis technique was used to assure the presence of titanium dioxide on talc surface, then X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) was employed to elucidate the concentration of different elements in the prepared pigments. Evaluation of these pigments was undertaken using international standard testing methods. The pigments were then incorporated in solvent‐based paint formulations based on medium oil alkyd resin. The physico‐mechanical properties of dry films and their corrosion properties were tested using accelerated laboratory tests in 3.5 percent NaCl for 28 days.FindingsThe results of this work reveal that as the layer of titanium dioxide is increased in thickness, enhanced anticorrosive properties of the new pigments are obtained.Practical implicationsThese pigments can be applied in other polymer composites, e.g. rubber and plastics, as a reinforcing agent.Originality/valueThese prepared pigments are environmentally friendly and impart high anticorrosive behavior to paint films, a unique homogenous texture, and deliver concomitant cost savings.
Influence of climate factors on copper corrosion in electronic equipment and devices
Authors: Badilla Gustavo Lopez , Salas Benjamin Valdez , Wiener Miguel Schorr , Gonzalez Navor Rosas , Vazquez Hugo Tiznado , Herrara Gerardo Soto 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the indoor corrosion of metals used in the electronics industry, as influenced by climate factors.Design/methodology/approachCorrosivity levels inside industrial plants were evaluated to evaluate the deterioration of metals.FindingsRelative humidity, temperature, and time of wetness are recorded and related to the corrosion process.Originality/valueControl of climate factors indoors in industrial plants to reduce and control the corrosion process of metals used in the electronics industry.
New food processing technologies as a paradigm of safety and quality
Authors: Rodrigo Dolores , Sampedro Fernando , Silva A. , Palop Alfredo , Martínez Antonio 
Published: May 2010

PurposeMost of the preservation processes are based on temperature control; they are economical, safe and well established. However, for certain foods these processes modify the valuable nutritional content and organoleptic properties. In recent years, a number of emerging food preservation processes have been developed to fill a market niche in which the consumer prefers to pay more to obtain processed foods with their natural properties. The paper seeks to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachIn this study a review of the available scientific data in relation to high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and pulsed electric fields (PEF) are presented, highlighting the quality advantages, industrial application and safety risks in their use.FindingsNowadays, more than 100 industrial applications are marketed and several companies design process equipments. Damage to cell membranes, enzymes or DNA is the most commonly cause of microorganisms' death by these technologies. In addition, within a population of microorganisms, some bacteria are killed, others survive, and a proportion is damaged. The latter is the concern population as the damage may be repaired and the microorganism maybe viable during the product shelf life. Acquisition of new or modified characteristics such as higher treatment resistance could also occur. Another potential risk has to do with the death pattern of microorganisms showing deviations from the traditional log‐linear kinetic model (shoulders, tails and sigmoidal shape). Therefore the developing of simple mathematical models, which can adequately interpret this behaviour, is necessary.Originality/valueIn summary, PEF and HHP technologies need to be evaluated by industries and regulatory authorities and more affordable equipments should be marketed to expand their use at industrial level.
Food consumer science post‐graduate courses: comparison of face‐to‐face versus online delivery systems
Authors: Pinto de Moura Ana , Miguel Cunha Luís , Miranda Azeiteiro Ulisses , Aires Luísa , Graça Pedro , Vaz de Almeida Maria Daniel 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare face‐to‐face versus online course delivery systems in the area of food consumption and to analyse the students' expectations and experiences. It aims to analyse the following dimensions: general expectations, learning organization and interactions in students' discourses. Design/methodology/approach – The methodology adopted is of interpretative nature using semi‐structured qualitative interviews. An interview guide was designed taking into account the learning modalities (styles and strategies), materials and learning tools, teacher‐student interaction and peer interaction dimensions. The students of both courses were interviewed in the second semester of the curricular year of the respective MSc degrees. Findings – This study has shown that face‐to‐face and online students are equally satisfied with their courses revealing the same confirmed general expectations. Comments for both course delivery systems are the need for more laboratory and practical classes. Results from this study also indicated that face‐to‐face and online educations are effective training food consumer sciences students suggesting, however, that both systems should evolve to blended‐learning. Practical implications – Both course delivery systems (face‐to‐face and online) contributed to the competencies acquisition in Food Consumer Sciences. B‐learning appears as the natural convergence of students needs. Originality/value – The online course results of the discourse analysis suggest the success developing a learning community pointing out the role of the online instructor and the course coordinator. The paper provided useful data and knowledge on which further research can be carried out.
The moderating effect of business strategy on the relationship between operations strategy and firms' results
Authors: Oltra María J. , Luisa Flor M. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine empirically from a contingency perspective the influence of business strategy on the relationship between operations strategy and business results.Design/methodology/approachAnalysis is carried out on a sample of 76 Spanish ceramic tile firms. Data on strategies are gathered by means of a postal survey addressed to operations managers and information on firms' results is drawn from secondary sources. Operations strategy is represented by competitive priorities and business strategy is based on Miles and Snow's typology. Relationships are modelled in regression equations including interaction terms in order to test for the existence of a moderating effect.FindingsExistence of a moderating effect of business strategy on the relationship between operations strategy and firms' results is demonstrated. Specifically, in defender firms, the cost and quality priorities influence positively, whereas priorities of delivery and flexibility have a negative effect. No influence of operations strategy on firms' results is observed in analyser or prospector firms.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations of this research include the reduced number of organisations investigated and the fact that all companies belong to a single industry. Also, the fact that strategy variables are based on self‐reporting measures identified by a single respondent.Practical implicationsPractitioners must bear in mind the coherence between operations strategy and business strategy. In this work, details of business and operations strategy fits are given.Originality/valueThe fit between operations strategy and business strategy is studied by focusing on the moderating role of business strategy.
Enterprise systems complexity and its antecedents: a grounded‐theory approach
Authors: Schoenherr Tobias , Hilpert Ditmar , Soni Ashok K. , Venkataramanan M.A. , Mabert Vincent A. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a better understanding about drivers of enterprise systems complexity (ESC), as well as its multi‐faceted conceptualization.Design/methodology/approachCase studies were conducted among German Mittelstand companies by an international research team. A grounded theory approach was followed, with the first phase of the case studies being exploratory, and the second phase being more focused.FindingsCase study findings suggest that ESC is a multi‐dimensional construct consisting of the following dimensions: seamlessness, adoption date, number of integrated subsystems, system type/composition, number of functional areas linked, and number of users. Drivers of ESC identified via the case studies include the multi‐dimensional constructs of competition, complexity of processes, complexity of products, global operations, and the firm's customer base. Grounded theory development is used to conceptualize the measures of these drivers. Founded in these exploratory observations propositions for future research are developed.Originality/valueThe research reports on the experiences of companies with enterprise systems (ES), and explores organizational factors determining system complexity; as a sampling frame Mittelstand companies in Southwest Germany are chosen, making this study one of the few exploring ES within this context. The paper also places ESC within theoretical domains, especially the STS theory. The conceptualization of ESC and its antecedents presented provides a starting point for future academic research into this area.
Talent management: ensuring your people give you the competitive edge
Authors: Stephens Nick 
Published: May 2010

PurposeHR and people management have become increasingly important in the current economic climate. This paper examines how these key issues are approached.Design/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the article in contextFindingsThe study confirmed that well‐managed talent is crucial for success in the highly competitive global drugs market.Originality/valueAssessing leadership potential, retaining talent and evaluating the cost of recruiting senior executives were all identified as key issues for today's life sciences executives.
Work and career experiences of ethnic minority men and women
Authors: Fearfull Anne , Kamenou Nicolina 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce the contexts in which this special issue developed, along with the wider context in which research such as that included is conducted. It is believed that without the persistence of researchers in this field, the situation would be even worse.Design/methodology/approachPapers were selected from those submitted following a call for papers which went out after the Inaugural Equal Opportunities International Conference held at the University of East Anglia in July 2008. Two of the selected papers use qualitative, and two use quantitative, methodologies. The research was conducted in Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom. Each seeks to develop theory based upon fresh empirical work.FindingsCompelling evidence provides insight to ways in which majority and minority ethnic employees experience organizations differently, along with the resultant differential outcomes, including career paths, quality and opportunities.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper maintains that each paper in this special issue (within its own context and as it currently stands) represents a robust example of qualitative or quantitative research in the field.Practical implicationsFrom the evidence of each paper published here, it is clear that academics and practitioners alike will gain insights to employer and employee behaviours at the level of the labour market and within the workplace itself. Such insights should encourage further action on the part of both. Employers should be prompted to review their polices and practices in the light of anti‐discriminatory legislation in such a way as to minimize discrimination therein.Social implicationsThis paper draws attention to matters of persistent inequality which remain so even in enlightened times wherein quite extensive legislation is in place to outlaw such inequality. As such, the guest editors would like to see, as a result of both academics and practitioners reading the work within this, and all other, editions of the journal, concerted efforts, in the case of the former, to continue to conduct and disseminate high‐profile research in the area of discrimination and equal opportunity, and, in the latter, to address their policies and practices. In the latter context, the guest editors would like to see an impact on public and private employment policies and the seriousness with which corporate social responsibility is undertaken. In that respect, public attitudes might eventually be seen to be changing for the more equitable.Originality/valueThe paper brings together the findings of four different pieces of original research in such a way as to demonstrate the commitment of researchers to addressing inequality in today's workplaces, which themselves continue to be inequitable.
Migrant employees in Germany: personnel structures and practices
Authors: Ortlieb Renate , Sieben Barbara 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the representation of migrant employees in German organizations and to demonstrate that their employment opportunities are outcomes of diversity strategies – i.e. patterns of personnel practices and the reasons that cause them or are alleged to do so.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a typology of diversity strategies where elements of strategy and diversity research are combined with resource dependence theory. Propositions on the strategies’ relation to personnel structures and practices are examined through empirical data stemming from telephone interviews conducted with HR managers of 500 German companies.FindingsEmpirical analyses revealed that diversity strategies are tightly related to personnel structures and practices. The best employment opportunities and career prospects for skilled migrants are offered by companies pursuing a diversity strategy labelled learning. In addition, the findings demonstrate the robustness of this typology.Research limitations/implicationsThe empirical data suffer from common method bias: information was gathered on the pursued strategy, the personnel structure and practices of each company by interviewing one single person. Moreover, to dig more deeply into the relation with career prospects, a supplementary qualitative approach would be fruitful.Practical implicationsThe results highlight conditions which are beneficial for advocating the integration of migrant employees. Equally, they may incentivise organizational decision makers with the “good reasons” to employ migrants.Originality/valueBy this paper's typology of diversity strategies, an innovative approach is contributed to the theoretical foundation of diversity research as their relation to personnel structures and practices is empirically analysed for the first time.
Office layouts and employee participation
Authors: Mohammad A. Binyaseen Adel 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose an applicable solution to help organizations to solve the problem of participation vs privacy in office buildings.Design/methodology/approachA theoretical model is proposed based on research claims that employees' participation motivated by three issues simultaneously is likely to shape the ideal overall participation map in office layouts. These are organizational, physical planning, and personal characteristics issues. The model was applied to a case study and results were compared with employees' reaction.FindingsOnce the model was applied, results revealed misallocation of 63 per cent of staff in their workspaces. Results support employees' reaction towards their dissatisfaction with the level of participation vs privacy they possess in their workspaces.Research limitations/implicationsEach organization could have a different participation map due to variations in organizational and personal characteristics issues. Further research is needed to understand relationships among the three incorporated issues.Originality/valueThe proposed model could be easily applied and would provide organizations with ideal office layouts that would support productivity.
A conceptual framework for hybrid building projects
Authors: Adeyeye Kemi , Bouchlaghem Dino , Pasquire Christine 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on hybrid projects as a type of building adaptation work. It seeks to discuss the hybrid building design process in subsets of information and resulting decisions by highlighting the relationship between them. It also aims to present a conceptual framework which was developed by refining, or customising the RIBA Plan of Work.Design/methodology/approachField theory formed the theoretical basis for the approach to mapping the hybrid project process. The conceptual framework itself evolved from a comprehensive literature review, case studies and a practice survey. In total, 11 design and construction professionals evaluated the framework and their comments and feedback are also discussed.FindingsThe discussion presents an approach which can be used to manage the delivery of hybrid projects, although it was found that the proposed framework can be applied to a wider spectrum of construction projects.Research limitations/implicationsThe evaluation of the framework was limited by the number of participants involved and the limited client representation.Originality/valueThe paper makes an original contribution by further exploring an increasingly relevant area of construction activity; building adaptations. Although the research focused specifically on the design‐specific stages of hybrid project delivery, findings contribute towards process improvement by emphasising the need for early information acquisition, early and precise definition of design intent, and collaborative design decision making. These three factors contribute highly to client/user satisfaction (value) and effective project delivery.
Managing employers' requirements in construction industry
Authors: Yu Ann T.W. , Shen Geoffrey Q.P. , Chan Edwin H.W. 
Published: May 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore existing problems and potential solutions of managing Employers' Requirements in the project development process of construction projects under traditional procurement systems.Design/methodology/approachTwo research instruments are used: semi‐structured interview and questionnaire survey, to investigate the problems and potential solutions to Requirements Management in the construction industry.FindingsThe research revealed that Requirements Management is crucial to the successful delivery of construction projects. However, the current practice of Requirements Management in the industry is informal and there is a lack of a systematic approach to tackle the problems. The authors also propose potential solutions to Requirements Management as well as a vision for further research.Practical implicationsThe paper presents the problems of managing Employers' Requirements, and the potential solutions to improve the Requirements Management process that need to be addressed.Originality/valueThe paper improves one's comprehension of the nature, characteristics, problems and potential solutions of Requirements Management in the project development process under the traditional procurement systems in the construction industry, relevant to both practitioners and scholars. A model is proposed as a “preliminary framework” to show the processes involved.