bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inclusive working life and value conflict in Norway
Authors: Johanne Solheim Liv 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to offer an analysis of the conflicting values behind Norway's much celebrated inclusive working life (IWL) programme, which aims to reduce sickness absenteeism, to increase the average age of retirement, and to hire functionally challenged persons. This article, moreover, presents sorely needed qualitative data from a preliminary study on IWL that shows how state‐owned enterprises have struggled to cope with the conflicting goals.Design/methodology/approachThis is a qualitative study based on interviews with regional managers and representatives of the unions who had to adapt to IWL, and the results suggest possible explanations behind the disappointing numbers found by other quantitative studies on IWL.FindingsBecause of the decision to implement IWL, regional managers are caught in the middle of two different ideologies, namely, neo‐liberalism or new public management (NPM) and the welfare‐state ideology, and they find themselves making choices according to the former. This study on state enterprises at the local level has found that managers and union representatives appeared to support the intentions behind the programme, but they clearly prioritized productivity and efficiency over inclusiveness.Research limitations/implicationsAs the results are from a preliminary qualitative study of IWL that only included state enterprises, there is a need for further research that also includes the private enterprises.Practical implicationsThis study finds that IWL is ineffective because it cannot harmonize the NPM and the welfare‐state ideologies.Originality/valueThis article helps to remedy the lack of qualitative documentation on the progress of IWL. These results also question the prevailing optimism over the potential of IWL by pointing to the ideological tensions between welfare and efficiency.
Competitive priorities and strategic consensus in emerging economies: evidence from India
Authors: Kathuria Ravi , Porth Stephen J. , Kathuria N.N. , Kohli T.K. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand the competitive priorities of manufacturers in India, and examine the level of agreement or strategic consensus between senior executives and manufacturing managers on manufacturing competitive priorities in light of the prevalent culture.Design/methodology/approachSurvey data collected from 156 respondents from 78 manufacturing units based on a national sample in India are used to test the hypotheses using the paired samples t‐tests and multivariate analysis of variance.FindingsA relatively high emphasis by both levels of managers on quality, compared to the other three competitive priorities, is noteworthy and consistent with the global trends. The emphasis on delivery is a close second. Differences in competitive priorities exist across managerial levels in India despite the high power distance and low individualism.Research limitations/implicationsThe effect of ownership as private or public company was examined and no significant differences found, but data could not be collected on the ownership structure such as wholly owned domestic firms, foreign subsidiaries, or joint ventures. and whether a firm is a supplier to a multinational company. It may also be noted that a majority of the manufacturing companies in this paper came from three industries – chemicals, fabricated metals, and electronic and electrical equipment – and, hence, the findings of the paper might have been unduly influenced by the prevalent practices in these industries.Practical implicationsThe paper informs global managers and firms seeking to outsource to, or invest in, India that the Indian managers place significantly high emphasis on quality and delivery, but not as much on product variety or ability to make frequent changes to product design and production volume. The managers in India need to take note of prevailing differences in managerial priorities and efforts need to be made such that the priorities are aligned and manufacturing strategy may be unified and coordinated.Originality/valueIn the Indian context, this is the first study that deployed multiple respondents to understand the manufacturing competitive priorities, and also the first to examine strategic consensus in operations strategy.
Taming diversity: an exploratory study on the travel of a management fashion
Authors: Heres Leonie , Benschop Yvonne 
Published: July 2010

PurposeOriginating from the USA in the early 1990s, diversity management has been “imported” to Europe to become a fashionable practice in many business organizations. The aim of this paper is to provide further insight into whether and how the diversity management discourse challenges and replaces existing local discourses on equality and diversity, and how diversity management is given content and meaning in a specific local context.Design/methodology/approachStatements on diversity, diversity management and equality on both the Dutch and the international websites of ten leading companies in the Netherlands are analyzed.FindingsThe analysis shows that translations of diversity management may in fact not actually replace existing local discourses, but rather leave the existing local discourse more or less intact and alter the original diversity management discourse to fit into this local discourse.Originality/valueThis paper offers some important lessons for management practice.
Restructuring liaison librarian teams at the University of Arizona Libraries, 2007‐2009
Authors: Andrade Ricardo , Zaghloul Raik 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze the restructuring process of the University of Arizona libraries. The paper focuses more specifically on the research support services (RSS) team, one of the librarian teams, that moved from a subject liaison model to a domain model focused on different work areas.Design/methodology/approachThe paper details the three phases of restructuring: building the general frame of change by the restructuring team, staffing outline by the implementation team, and how the resulting team, the research support team, managed its assigned work.FindingsThe restructuring resulted in a few changes to the library as whole but the largest change was the creation of the RSS team and the move from a subject specialist model to a domain model. The RSS model has allowed the team to accomplish their work with fewer staff.Originality/valueThe paper provides a new approach of how a research university is responding to economic and technological challenges.
Symposium report: BOBCATSSS 2010
Authors: Robinson Sara P. , Westwood Catherine 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the BOBCATSSS 2010 conference held in Parma, Italy in January 2010.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents an outline of the content of the conference proceedings including a description of the presentations, workshops and social events.FindingsThe theme focused on the role of libraries and other cultural institutions and the challenges they face in providing access for all. Participants explored the concept of “Bridging the digital divide” through presentations, workshops, and posters.Originality/valueA brief conference report of value to library and information professionals and students of library and information science‐related disciplines with an interest in overcoming challenges presented in a digital environment.
The relationship between diversity training, organizational commitment, and career satisfaction
Authors: Yap Margaret , Holmes Mark Robert , Hannan Charity‐Ann , Cukier Wendy 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between employees' perceptions of diversity training (DT) existence and effectiveness with organizational commitment (OC), and career satisfaction (CS).Design/methodology/approachThe analyses in this paper utilize survey data collected between 2006 and 2007 from over 11,000 managers, professionals, and executives working in nine large organizations in corporate Canada. The survey included questions about employees' perceptions of their work experiences and outcomes and their organizations' diversity practices. Comparisons of means as well as multivariate regression analyses were undertaken.FindingsThe paper shows that employees who perceived DT to be effective were significantly more committed to their organizations and more satisfied with their careers than employees who perceived DT to be ineffective or non‐existent.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper examines the linkages between DT, OS, and CS based on survey responses from managers, professionals, and executives. Findings may therefore not be applicable to entry level employees.Practical implicationsDT, and in particular when viewed by employees to be effective, increases employees' OC and CS, which are associated with loyalty, lower turnover and higher employee engagement.Originality/valueThe paper found that employees' OC and CS are highest when they perceived DT to be effective. Factors associated with OC and CS are explored based on employees' perceptions of the availability and effectiveness of DT.
Magnetic microfibres modelling methods
Authors: Wiak Sławomir , Firych‐Nowacka Anna , Smółka Krzysztof 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe research into the problem of creating computer structural models of magnetic microfibres. The main goal of the research is to create the universal generator of computer structural models for whole bundles of magnetic microfibres.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents the algorithm of magnetic microfibres computer modelling. It covers both finite element method (FEM) and reluctance network method. Because microfibres with ferromagnetic grains have very complicated 3D structure, the quickest possible method was chosen.FindingsThe results focus on the methodology presented in the paper which can be implemented in building 3D equivalent B/H curve of the microfibres set by use of field method – combining reluctance network method and FEM. Defining the proper magnetic B/H curves of magnetic fibres will enable the production of smart and resistant clothes.Originality/valueTo date there are only measurements characteristics of B/H curve of magnetic microfibres. This paper proposes an innovatory way of determining magnetic microfibres parameters. This universal computer model allows the evaluation of the limiting value of magnetization (magnetic permeability, etc.).
Non linear finite element‐circuit model of a hybrid stepping motor
Authors: Duckler Kenmoe Fankem Eric , Takorabet Noureddine , Meibody‐Tabar Farid , Michel Sargos François 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a coupled finite element (FE) – reluctance network model for a hybrid step motor.Design/methodology/approachThe equivalent permeances of the air‐gap are determined by 2D nonlinear FE computations. The results of the 2D model are used in a 3D analytical model. A spectral decomposition and a nonlinear fitting of the amplitudes of the permeance harmonics are performed to account for both saturation and high order harmonic effects. The nonlinear resolution of the circuit equations is performed with an iterative process. The performances are determined by using the principle of virtual works.FindingsThe method is validated with a 2D FE computation and then applied to a 3D hybrid step motor.Originality/valueThe proposed method enables fast and efficient computations of the performances of hybrid stepping motor.
Modelling of impulse loading in high‐temperature superconductors
Authors: Golosnoy I.O. , Sykulski J.K. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to access performance of existing computational techniques to model strongly non‐linear field diffusion problems.Design/methodology/approachMultidimensional application of a finite volume front‐fixing method to various front‐type problems with moving boundaries and non‐linear material properties is discussed. Advantages and implementation problems of the technique are highlighted by comparing the front‐fixing method with computations using fixed grids. Particular attention is focused on conservation properties of the algorithm and accurate solutions close to the moving boundaries. The algorithm is tested using analytical solutions of diffusion problems with cylindrical symmetry with both spatial and temporal accuracy analysed.FindingsSeveral advantages are identified in using a front‐fixing method for modelling of impulse phenomena in high‐temperature superconductors (HTS), namely high accuracy can be obtained with a small number of grid points, and standard numerical methods for convection problems with diffusion can be utilised. Approximately, first order of spatial accuracy is found for all methods (stationary or mobile grids) for 2D problems with impulse events. Nevertheless, errors resulting from a front‐fixing technique are much smaller in comparison with fixed grids. Fractional steps method is proved to be an effective algorithm for solving the equations obtained. A symmetrisation procedure has to be introduced to eliminate a directional bias for a standard asymmetric split in diffusion processes.Originality/valueThis paper for the first time compares in detail advantages and implementation complications of a front‐fixing method when applied to the front‐type field diffusion problems common to HTS. Particular attention is paid to accurate solutions in the region close to the moving front where rapid changes in material properties are responsible for large computational errors.
Sound optimization of a converter‐fed drive system using an acoustic camera in combination with modal analysis
Authors: Tischmacher Hans , Eichinger Benjamin 
Published: July 2010

PurposeModern variable‐speed drive systems using frequency converters generate additional audible noise as a result of the voltages that are no longer sinusoidal. Using suitable measures, the purpose of this paper is to find an optimum for minimum noise radiation in the complete drive system.Design/methodology/approachThe main areas to concentrate on to achieve an optimum are the source of excitation itself – the frequency converter, as well as the actual source of the noise, the motor. Optimization measures are drawn‐up using soundscaping with subsequent modal analysis of the actual state. The effectiveness of any changes made can be estimated using simulation techniques. This approach is confirmed by subsequently implementing the selected measures and verifying them by performing the appropriate measurements.FindingsThe paper takes care of the increasingly important field of converter‐fed drive systems and their special acoustical challenge. It shows a practical way to reduce audible noise combining measurements and simulations.Originality/valueCombining the measurement of the acoustic camera with the simulation of modal shapes is a fast way for optimizing an inverter‐fed drive system.
Sanosil, a more effective agent for preventing the hospital‐acquired ventilator associated pneumonia
Authors: Yousefshahi Fardin , Reza Khajavi Mohammad , Anbarafshan Mohammad , Khashayar Patricia , Najafi Atabak 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe aim of this study is to compare the effects of Sanosil and glutaraldehyde 2 percent in disinfecting ventilator connecting tubes in an intensive care unit (ICU) environment.Design/methodology/approachThe 12‐week open‐labelled clinical trial was conducted in the surgical ICU of a teaching hospital from March to May 2005. In the first phase of the study, high level disinfection was performed using glutaraldehyde 2 percent, whereas Sanosil was used as the disinfectant agent of the second phase. Samples for microbial culture were obtained from the Y piece, the expiratory limb proximal to the ventilator and the humidifier in different stages; the results were then compared.FindingsPositive culture was more frequently reported in Y pieces, humidifiers and expiratory end of ventilators. Comparing the two groups, there were more positive cultures in the glutaraldehyde group (p value=0.005); multiple organism growths, gram negative, gram positive and fungi were also more frequent in this group (p value=0.01; 0. 007; 0. 062; 0.144, respectively).Originality/valueThe paper shows that Sanosil is an effective agent in reducing the contamination risk in the tubes used in ICUs.
A novel sucrose porogen‐based solid freeform fabrication system for bone scaffold manufacturing
Authors: Lu Lin , Zhang Qingwei , Wootton David , Lelkes Peter I. , Zhou Jack 
Published: July 2010

PurposeMusculoskeletal conditions are a major health concern in the USA because of a large aging population and increased occurrence of sport‐related injuries. Bone tissue engineering may offer a less painful alternative to traditional bone grafts with lower risk of infection. The purpose of this paper is to present a novel porogen‐based fabrication system for tissue engineering scaffolds using sucrose (C12H22O11) as the porogen building material.Design/methodology/approachA new solid freeform fabrication system has been developed and tested, which uses pressurized extrusion to print highly biocompatible and water soluble sucrose bone scaffold porogens (or negtives). Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds are manufactured by injecting molten polymer into the porogens, and the porogens are subsequently dissolved with water. The resultant scaffolds demonstrate the defined porous structure designed into the sucrose porogen manufacturing computer‐aided design model.FindingsTo optimize the porogen manufacturing process, the viscosity of sucrose mixtures is measured. Design of experiments is used to plan and analyze the relationships between the porogen characteristics and the process parameters. Reservoir pressure and print head speed are identified as the dominant factors affecting sucrose flow rate and porogen strut diameter, respectively. The biocompatibility of the new system is assessed by in vitro cell culture testing. Endothelial hybridoma cells (EAhy 926) and osteoblasts (7F2) seeded on the fabricated PCL scaffolds adhered to the scaffold and proliferated over four to six days. Epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy images reveal cell spreading and multiple layers of cells on the scaffold surface. The results demonstrated the potential of the structured sucrose porogen‐based fabrication method in manufacturing bone tissue scaffolds.Originality/valueThis paper describes the first time use of biomaterials‐sucrose to make scaffold porogens and how an injection molded biopolymer scaffold can then be received.
The influence of prior experience and age on mature consumers' perceptions and intentions of internet apparel shopping
Authors: Kwon Wi‐Suk , Noh Mijeong 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate mature consumers' perceived risks and benefits and purchase intentions in the context of online apparel shopping and the role of age and past experience in their perceptions and intentions.Design/methodology/approachA national sample of 293 US male and female mature consumers (born in or before 1964) participated in a mail survey. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses regarding relationships among mature consumers' age, prior experiences, perceived risks and benefits, and purchase intentions.FindingsThe study revealed that perceived benefits regarding product and price offerings and perceived financial risk were significant predictors of mature consumers' online apparel purchase intention. In addition, the level of past online shopping experience was a strong antecedent of the mature consumer's perceived risks and benefits of online shopping. Age and general internet experience showed limited influences on mature consumers' perceptions and purchase intentions.Research limitations/implicationsThe study provides numerous implications for future research with regard to the challenges mature consumers may experience in adopting the internet as a shopping medium.Practical implicationsFindings from the study suggest that online retailers targeting mature consumers need to be aware of limitations and difficulties that mature consumers may face and to develop their web sites and communication messages to meet the specific needs of these consumers.Originality/valueThe study provides valuable insight into the mature consumers' internet shopping phenomenon, addressing a gap in the literature. The use of a national sample allows for generalization of the findings.
E‐atmosphere, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses
Authors: Kim Hyejeong , Lennon Sharron J. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis research is designed to investigate the effects of the apparel online shopping environment on emotions and cognitive and behavioral responses based on Mehrabian and Russell's model, which utilizes the stimulus‐organism‐response (S‐O‐R) paradigm.Design/methodology/approachA total of 230 female undergraduate students participated in an experiment after browsing a stimulus website. The effects of the use of a model, color swapping on clothing, and enlargement (2 × 2 × 2 between‐subjects factorial design) on emotions and the relationships among pleasure, arousal, perceived amount of information, perceived risk, and purchase intention were tested using SEM.FindingsThe results showed an effect of enlargement on pleasure (H1c), a positive relationship between pleasure and perceived amount of information (H2a), and negative relationships between perceived amount of information and product quality and online transaction risk (H3a) and consequential risk (H3b), and between product quality and online transaction risk and purchase intention (H4a). The post hoc test revealed the negative relationships between pleasure/arousal and product quality and online transaction risk, positive relationships between pleasure/arousal and purchase intention, and positive relationship between perceived amount of information and purchase intention.Research limitations/implicationsThe study used a sample of female undergraduate students at a Midwest university, which limits generalizability to other consumer groups. The experiment was conducted online and the different computer conditions might have influenced respondents' online shopping experiences.Originality/valueThe study enhances understanding of online shopping environment and relationships among the emotional (pleasure and arousal), cognitive, and behavioral response mechanisms.