bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rapid prototyping technologies in soft tissue facial prosthetics: current state of the art
Authors: Bibb Richard , Eggbeer Dominic , Evans Peter 
Published: February 2010

PurposeMaxillofacial prosthetics is faced with increasing patient numbers and cost constraints leading to the need to explore whether computer‐aided techniques can increase efficiency. This need is addressed through a four‐year research project that identified quality, economic, technological and clinical implications of the application of digital technologies in maxillofacial prosthetics. The purpose of this paper is to address the aspects of this research that related to the application of rapid prototyping (RP).Design/methodology/approachAn action research approach is taken, utilising multiple case studies to evaluate the current capabilities of digital technologies in the preparation, design and manufacture of maxillofacial prostheses.FindingsThe research indicates where RP has demonstrated potential clinical application and where further technical developments are required. The paper provides a technical specification towards which RP manufacturers can direct developments that would meet the needs of maxillofacial prosthetists.Originality/valueWhilst research studies have explored digital technologies in maxillofacial prosthetics, they have relied on individual studies applying a single RP technology to one particular aspect of a prosthesis. Consequently, conclusions on the wider implications have not been possible. This research explored the application of digital technologies to every aspect of the design and manufacture of a series of maxillofacial prostheses. Unlike previous research, the cases described here addressed the application of RP to the direct manufacture of substructures, retention components and texture. This research analyses prosthetic requirements to ascertain target technical specifications towards which RP processes should be developed.
The effect of processing parameters on characteristics of selective laser sintering dental glass‐ceramic powder
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhang Biao , Yan Chunze , Shi Yusheng 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report a study about the rapid prototyping method of dental glass‐ceramic restoration.Design/methodology/approachDental glass‐ceramic restoration materials have excellent physical and chemical, mechanical, aesthetic and biocompatibility characteristics. However, casting methods adopted at present have complicated procedures and high costs; the forming qualities are especially difficult to control. These problems greatly restrict their clinical application and promotion. Therefore, a new forming process based on selective laser sintering (SLS) technology is proposed. First, dental glass‐ceramic is processed into fine powder through a special heat treatment process. Then, the dental restoration parts are manufactured using SLS without any moulds. In this paper, the effects of processing parameters including laser power, scan speed, scan spacing and preheating temperature on the relative density and mechanical properties of the sintered parts are studied.FindingsThe experimental results have shown that for the composite powder of epoxy resin binder E‐12 and K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 series of dental glass‐ceramics, when preheating temperature, layer thickness, laser power, scan speed and scan spacing are, respectively, 30∼35°C, 0.08 mm, 21 W, 1,800 mm/s and 0.10 mm/s, the relative densities of dental glass‐ceramic parts are relatively high; the mechanical properties and forming effect are excellent. The relative density and bending strength of SLS parts under the optimized processing parameters are 37.40 per cent and 2.08 MPa, respectively.Research limitations/implicationsThis study only concerns the preparation and SLS of the dental glass‐ceramic powders. Further investigations are planned to be conducted on post processing, such as binder decomposition, isostatic press and high temperature sintering.Originality/valueThis study will provide a theoretical and technical basis for dental glass‐ceramic restorations of SLS.
Profile invalidation approaching rapid prototyping
Authors: Tong Yang , Shan Yao , Feng Zeng 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a novel rapid prototyping (RP) approach and verifying its feasibility. This alternative solution is to bring several merits from both selective laser sintering and laminated object manufacturing.Design/methodology/approachThe phenolic resin coated sand is used in this method. It could be cured at an appropriate temperature and be invalidated at a higher one. Therefore, the fabrication flows from laser cutting along slice profiles to a bulk curing heating after stacking up. Finally, the workpiece may be detached out of the excess material. Experiments and modeling on laser scanning are conducted to optimize the processing parameters, which, along with the direct slicing strategy, guarantee the part performance.FindingsA novel prototyping system is developed comprising the software package and prototyping machine, through which several specimens are fabricated. The results show the feasibility of the proposed RP method.Originality/valueThis research brings the applicability of a hybrid solution: profile invalidation RP.
Benchmarking procurement functions: causes for superior performance
Authors: Brandmeier Rupert A. , Rupp Florian 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to gain a better understanding between procurement strategy, organization, processes, methods and tools, human resources, supplier management, and overall procurement success.Design/methodology/approachIn order to achieve the above‐mentioned results, a holistic benchmark with highly recognized companies is conducted. Applying a cohesive questionnaire of open and closed questions, the paper covers all relevant aspects of procurement functions. Regression analysis is used to identify significant correlations.FindingsThe benchmarking (BM) proved the following significant success factors for the overall procurement process: use of cross‐functional teams, high hierarchical positioning of the procurement function within the company, strong cooperation with other functions, training and development of the procurement personnel as well as supplier integration and continuous evaluation.Practical implicationsThe paper provides the reader with sound evidence of how to improve the overall performance of procurement.Originality/valueThe analytical results of the research rely on statistical/mathematical methodology to substantiate qualitative BM results.
Dynamic benchmarking methodology for quality function deployment
Authors: Raharjo Hendry , Hin Chai Kah , Xie Min , Brombacher Aarnout C. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a methodology to integrate both the dynamics of competitors' performance and the dynamics of customer preference, along with their interaction, into a quality function deployment (QFD) analysis.Design/methodology/approachA systematic dynamic benchmarking methodology is proposed with an illustrative example.FindingsThe analytic hierarchy process's (AHP's) relative measurement might serve as a better way to elicit the customer's judgment over time in the QFD, not only in the importance rating part, but also in the competitive benchmarking part. It is also possible to quantitatively model the AHP priorities' change over time, and incorporate it in the QFD decision‐making process.Research limitations/implicationsIt might take a certain amount of time and efforts to collect the necessary data over time. However, it might be justified considering the improved accuracy of the QFD results. It is also important that the data collection should be carried out in a specific customer segment.Practical implicationsQFD practitioners may find a more systematic method to continually evaluate the current performance, identify areas for improvement, and eventually set goals for the future.Originality/valueThere are two novel approaches used in the methodology. First, it is the use of an exponential smoothing‐based forecasting technique to model the trend of the AHP‐based importance rating values and the competitive benchmarking information. Second, it is a strength‐weakness‐opportunity‐threat‐based competitive weighting scheme, which serves as a more systematic way to substitute the traditional QFD customer competitive target setting and sales point value determination.
Internal benchmarking for assessment of supply chain performance
Authors: Soni Gunjan , Kodali Rambabu 
Published: February 2010

PurposeIn global scenario, many organizations own supply chains, which operate in different countries. The performance of these supply chains, owned by the same organization must be same if they operate in countries with similar economical, political, and social conditions. In this paper, an effort has been made to propose a methodology for the internal benchmarking to reduce the variability in performance among supply chains of same focal firm. The proposed methodology of internal benchmarking for assessment of supply chain performance demonstrated through a case supply chain.Design/methodology/approachA case of global supply chains is presented in which a focal firm owns three supply chains operating in three different countries. In order to assess and improve the performance of these supply chains relative to each other, a benchmarking methodology is proposed.FindingsAn extensive use of performance value analysis (PVA) and strength, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis provided good diagnosis of supply chains. This analysis can be very useful in leveraging the supply chain drivers of various supply chains belonging to same focal organization and hence bring performance of all the supply chains at the same performance level.Originality/valueAccording to the authors' knowledge, there is no paper in the literature, which discusses the application of PVA and SWOT analysis for internal benchmarking in supply chain management and it is believed that it will be useful for supply chain managers to apply such tools to lead global development in their supply chains.
Benchmarking the redesign of “business process reengineering” curriculum
Authors: Jain Rashmi , Chandrasekaran Anithashree , Gunasekaran Angappa 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to illustrate the application of business process reengineering (BPR) and benchmarking principles to redesign an undergraduate course on BPR to achieve continuous improvements. The principles are applied on a course on BPR in the curriculum of engineering management (EM) program at Stevens Institute of Technology. The EM program aims to provide the students the knowledge and skills, which are necessary to work effectively at the interface between technology, management, and engineering. BPR course (EM435) is recently added to EM program's curriculum to support the need for providing the bridge between the engineering of systems and business operations.Design/methodology/approachThe research approach design is laid out from the time the EM435 course is first offered in the fall of 2006 to the senior year EM students. The students are surveyed and areas of redesign and improvements are identified based on benchmarking against ABET criteria and their associated outcomes, student expectations, similar academic courses, and industry expectations of skills and knowledge.FindingsThe identification of the improvement areas in the BPR curriculum leads to a continuous process improvement (CPI) initiative, which has been continued in a more structured manner. Research findings indicate a strong support for more case studies, use of BPR tool, and real‐life project in their investigation of effective pedagogy for teaching BPR to engineering undergraduates.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper demonstrates the value of applying benchmarking and CPI methodology in maintaining effective teaching and learning of BPR concepts. More empirical metrics can be developed in future to measure the success of course, improvements.Practical implicationsThe findings of this research will promote adoption of courses on BPR and lay a foundation for BPR curriculum in engineering. The CPI approach will provide opportunities to analyze improvements over a period of time.Originality/valueThis paper is unique in its application of benchmarking and CPI for improving BPR curriculum at an undergraduate engineering level.
Best practices for the effectiveness of benchmarking in the Indonesian manufacturing companies
Authors: Asrofah Tutie , Zailani Suhaiza , Fernando Yudi 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine best practices that contribute to the effectiveness of benchmarking in Indonesian manufacturing industries.Design/methodology/approachA total of 250 questionnaires are distributed to representatives of the Badan Pengelola Industri Strategis (BPIS) registered companies, specifically to the quality managers or production managers that are involved in the benchmarking process in companies.FindingsIn total, 155 responded to the questionnaire; that gives a response rate of 51.67 percent. Analysis of the data has shown that some benchmarking practices, e.g. the manufacturing process, and organizational and environmental factors do significantly influence the effectiveness of benchmarking.Research limitations/implicationsFurther study needs to be undertaken to identify other best practices of benchmarking. A further limitation of the study is that the survey items are based on the literature review.Practical implicationsA government body such as a benchmarking department (BPIS) can therefore focus on these factors for further development of benchmarking. BPIS Indonesia can organize more training and seminars for smaller manufacturing companies. From an organizational point of view, attention should be given to improving compatibility, employee innovativeness, and government intervention so that the best practices of benchmarking can be used proactively as a strategic tool.Originality/valueFrom the findings of this paper, in order for the benchmarking process to be successful, an organization needs these general requirements: top management commitment and support: a solid understanding of the manufacturing operations and requirements for improvement: willingness to share information with benchmarking partners; and dedication to ongoing benchmarking efforts.
Benchmarking the impacts of US magnet schools in urban schools
Authors: Green Daryl D. , Davis Deshaun H. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the range of benchmark applications associated with US magnet schools in urban areas.Design/methodology/approachThe collection and critical analysis of secondary data from relevant publications are used to evaluate the results of America's magnet schools. Analysis of organizational and leadership theory has been utilized in order to benchmark future successful efforts.FindingsThe paper finds the following key issues: magnet schools have numerous mission goals that prevent them for having a clear strategy, magnet school structures should be customized for the specific communities and promote parental involvement, and magnet schools instruct students who are heavily influenced by pop culture values and challenge traditional values in the school culture.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper examines benchmarking applications that are exclusively relevant in US urban schools.Practical implicationsThere are several implications for researchers and practitioners related to improving the academic success of low‐performing schools in urban areas in America.Originality/valueThis paper is significant because it presents a theoretical framework for interpreting the impacts of magnet schools in urban schools.
A natural resource valuation tool for assisting natural resource management
Authors: Mazourenko Elena 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe paper's purpose is to investigate the opportunities for better integration of environmental valuation (EV) methodology into the natural resource management (NRM) decision‐making process in the context of NRM practices in South Australia and to offer a practical valuation tool to the NRM agencies for assisting the NRM decision‐making process.Design/methodology/approachThis research examines the theoretical approach to EV methodology in an attempt to reduce certain limitations of the methodology. Data for this project were collected through interviews with various South Australian state NRM authorities. Both theoretical and empirical findings led to the development of a natural resource valuation (NRV) tool based on a modification of the contingent valuation (CV) technique.FindingsThe data obtained indicate a range of reasons for under‐utilisation of EV methodology in NRM practice in South Australia such as the controversial nature of the methodology and low level of awareness among NRM practitioners about the benefits of undertaking EV studies. These findings are addressed by the NRV tool aimed at promoting EV in NRM community consultation practices.Originality/valueThe results described in the paper are of value to NRM practitioners in offering a new valuation tool for better‐informed decision making. As a theoretical assessment of certain aspects of EV methodology, this research is of value to the academic community.
Renewable energy in Australia: 20 per cent by 2020
Authors: Froome Craig 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe Australian Government has proposed a portfolio standard requiring 20 per cent of electricity to be supplied by renewable energy. It has introduced a number of policy measures to drive this target; however based on the resources and commercially available technology is this enough? This paper aims to look at the application of both Federal and State measures and to determine whether this will drive the deployment of technology at the rate required to meet the targets set.Design/methodology/approachResearch and modelling was undertaken on the anticipated generation technologies (based on proposed policy measures and commercial availability of the technology), which indicate a shortfall in renewable generation by 2018.FindingsThe findings indicate that additional policy measures will be required to meet the objectives set. These measures will need to be introduced at a State level where the policy measure can target those renewable resources in which the State has both an economic and abundant supply.Practical implicationsWithin any country (particularly one the size of Australia) different regions will have different renewable resources and policy will need to target those resources in which the region has an abundant and economically viable supply.Originality/valueCurrently all discussion in relation to policy measures to combat global warming issues within Australia has been focused at the Federal level. The paper highlights the need to focus policy at State level when looking at deploying technology at specific renewable resources.
Opinion leaders and complex sustainability issues
Authors: Keys Noni , Thomsen Dana C. , Smith Timothy F. 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify mechanisms and strategies involved in individual and local responses to complex global sustainability issues such as climate change.Design/methodology/approachThis paper describes an innovative approach to understanding the role of informal leadership and its utility in influencing societal attitudes and practice. The approach builds on theories of diffusion in which learning about new ideas, practices or technologies occurs through interpersonal communication with informal opinion leaders. It draws on findings from studies in other fields of social research, such as community health, development aid, and agriculture, in which the engagement of opinion leaders has been found to speed up the spread of responsive behaviours. The approach also analyses linkages between the concepts of response capacity to climate change and social capital with the strategies of opinion leaders for influencing societal change through informal social networks.FindingsResearch related to social change in response to climate change has focused predominantly on the need for reform at the public policy and institutional level, and at the other extreme, on individual behaviour change. The role of leaders has been cited as an important component of social change in case studies of adaptive management of natural resources, sustainability studies, and in research on social capital.Originality/valueDevelopment of the approach will contribute to the understanding of social mechanisms and processes involved in community engagement with complex problems and more specifically, response capacity for climate change at the regional level.
The role of labels in directing consumer packaging waste
Authors: Buelow Sarah , Lewis Helen , Sonneveld Kees 
Published: February 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which consumers in Melbourne understand recycling information on packaging labels and their resulting recycling behaviour.Design/methodology/approachMixed research methods were used in the study (qualitative and quantitative approaches) in the form of randomly distributed surveys and structured face‐to‐face interviews. Both methods were administered with consumers from three demographically different areas in the metropolitan Melbourne (Australia) region. The software program SPSS was used to analyze some of the results.FindingsThe research shows that despite good intentions, consumers' understanding of packaging materials and labelling for common products, and therefore resulting sorting behaviour, is often very poor. The confusion surrounding current labelling and recycling schemes can be attributed to incorrect labelling and system complexity combined with a lack of consumer understanding and care.Practical implicationsCorrect sorting of recyclable and non‐recyclable packaging means materials finish in the correct waste stream and recyclable materials have the opportunity to be reprocessed and eventually reused, saving raw materials as well as reducing other environmental impacts. If consumers do not correctly sort materials, recyclable packaging will go to landfill and non‐recyclable materials will contaminate the recycling stream.Social implicationsThe results of the research, when completed, could be used to design more effective labelling schemes for packaging to inform consumers about its recyclability. The social benefits potentially include increased diversion of recyclable materials from the waste stream and reduced costs of both recycling and waste disposal.Originality/valueThere has been very little research undertaken on the role and adequacy of labelling in driving consumer‐recycling behaviour, and therefore this paper fills that gap. The results in the paper may be used to further enhance environmental package labelling through policy development or commercial applications.