bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interpersonal relationships: students, teachers and librarians in university libraries of Pakistan
Authors: Bhatti Rubina 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess students‐teachers‐librarians interpersonal relationships; and to assess student attitudes towards library staff attitudes, library services and user‐education programmes in the university libraries of Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachA multi‐disciplinary approach is used. Questionnaires and semi‐structured interviews are utilised in the study together with discussions under interview conditions with the experts.FindingsThe literature shows the librarians' slightly negative attitude to relationships, but interestingly students and teachers' responses reveal a much more positive view of support and accessibility by the library staff. The majority of students' written responses point out more positive interpersonal relationships than the literature indicated. Verbal responses show antagonistic attitudes in some cases towards library staff. It is shown that interpersonal relationships are not as disappointing as shown in the literature and the qualitative study of experts' views, but still there is much to be done to improve the meaningfulness of the educational use of the library by improving the interpersonal relationships. It finds the factors affecting the successful interpersonal relationships as: lack of professional training, collaboration and satisfactory working conditions seem to be crucial for the meaningful interpersonal attitude.Research limitations/implicationsThe study examines the interpersonal relationships in the ten university libraries of Pakistan.Practical implicationsThe information can be useful for librarians and information specialists for developing positive working relationships. Librarians can play their role effectively in attracting and educating the users to wealth of information contained in Pakistani libraries.Originality/valueVery few studies on interpersonal relationship have been conducted in Pakistan. The key points that emerge that interpersonal relationships play a major part in developing attitudes towards library services and user education; antagonistic attitudes are evidenced in some cases towards library staff in the verbal responses from students (strongly) and teachers (less strongly). The myth that librarians are uncooperative with students and teachers is not well supported by the research.
Integration of knowledge management process into digital library system
Authors: Roknuzzaman  , Kanai Hideaki , Umemoto Katsuhiro 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework of an integrated digital library (DL) system based on knowledge management (KM) process.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on viewpoints, review of existing concepts and frameworks of DL and KM, and the result of an interview of nine DL practitioners world‐wide. The respondents are purposively selected from the participants” lists of two international conferences held in 2008. The interview is conducted through e‐mail using a short, structured and open‐ended questionnaire.FindingsThe study finds some significant overlaps between DL and KM and argues that a generic KM process of acquisition, organization, storage and retrieval, and dissemination of knowledge with receiving feedbacks can suitably be fitted in DL. Thus an integrated DL system can be consisted of digital resources, technological infrastructure, experience and expertise, DL services and a KM process. The integration of KM can add value to developing a knowledge‐based culture, management of intellectual assets, promotion of knowledge sharing, innovations in DL services and a strong leadership position for DL.Research limitations/implicationsThe research presents theoretical viewpoints of DL and KM, and the model, therefore, demands for practical investigation.Practical implicationsThe study suggests the adoption of KM process in DL system to enhance its effectiveness.Originality/valueThe proposed model is an original work and theoretically, it would contribute to the advancement of academic debate in both the areas of DL and KM.
Formation conditions, innovation, and learning in R&D consortia
Authors: Eisner Alan B. , Rahman Noushi , Korn Helaine J. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on formation motivations and processes of R&D consortia to appreciate their differential innovative and learning capabilities.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents its argument in two separate steps. First, a two‐by‐two framework, comprising four consortium types, is developed based on two formation motivations (i.e. risk sharing and networking) and two formation processes (i.e. emergent and engineered). Four case vignettes are used to demonstrate the practical relevance of the two‐by‐two consortium typology framework. Second, the innovative and learning capabilities of each of these consortia are explored and eight propositions are advanced.FindingsThe paper introduces four types of consortia: community builders, gamblers, visible hands, and opportunists. It is argued that visible hands generate greater innovation than community builders and opportunists, and community builders and opportunists generate greater innovation than gamblers. It is also argued that government involvement moderates the relationship between consortia type and innovative capabilities in an inverted U shape. Lastly, relative appropriateness of frequency, outcome, and trait imitations to facilitate organization‐level learning among consortium members is explored.Originality/valueThe main contribution of this paper lies in its two‐by‐two typology of consortium formation contextual conditions. Instead of focusing on evolutionary cycles and performance issues of consortia, this paper draws research attention to contextual conditions surrounding consortia formation. Consortium formation contextual conditions are critically important because they predetermine the life cycle and performance trajectory of consortia. This paper also links innovation and learning dynamics in consortia.
Outsourced marketing: it's the communication that matters
Authors: Walker Matthew , Sartore Melanie , Taylor Robin 
Published: June 2009

PurposeOutsourcing has been promoted as one of the most powerful trends in the modernization of marketing operations. The rationale for such an undertaking includes a variety of factors but is generally predicated on fiduciary considerations. The purpose of this article is to examine the issues with, and the empirical consequences of, outsourcing within the intercollegiate marketing context.Design/methodology/approachThis is an exploratory mixed‐methods study incorporating qualitative and quantitative data to investigate outsourcing specifically related to the communication‐employee commitment relationship.FindingsResults from study 1 reveal that marketing directors perceive outsourcing as critical but also experience dissatisfaction with the level, frequency, and direction of communication. Results from study 2 indicate that an explicit and positive relationship exists between employee satisfaction with communication and their resultant commitment to the organization.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to the exploratory nature of the study and a relatively small sample, the conclusions are tempered until subsequent studies have been performed. As well, specific moderating variables (e.g. size, culture, budget) were not included in this initial inquiry and as such may add considerable variance explained to the proposed relationship.Practical implicationsFirst, the authors suggest that managing the “right commitment” is essential for marketing departments when working with an outsourcing agency. Second, the authors call attention to the importance of certain contextual factors (e.g. shared knowledge, mutual dependency, and organizational linkage) that may serve to improve the outsourcing partnership.Originality/valueFew papers have explored the communication‐commitment relationship, particularly with regards to outsourcing. Consequently, this study adds to the research by examining how intercollegiate marketing employees perceive and react to an outsourcing partnership. Building on additional work in this area, the research focuses on several aspects of the communication‐commitment framework not previously examined.
Downsizing strategies and organizational performance: a longitudinal study
Authors: Sheaffer Zachary , Carmeli Abraham , Steiner‐Revivo Michal , Zionit Shaul 
Published: June 2009

PurposeHow does downsizing affect long‐ and short‐term organizational performance? The present study aims to address this important question and attempts to extend previous research by examining the effect of both personnel and assets reduction on long‐ and short‐term firm performance.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses data collected through secondary sources on 196 firms traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) between 1992 and 2001.FindingsEconometric analyses indicate the positive impact of a combination of downsizing strategies on short‐term performance, and the negative effect of this combination on long‐term performance and high‐tech industry performance is negatively related to assets and personnel cutbacks. Whereas downsizing affects the short‐term performance of larger and established companies positively, it generally affects long‐term performance inversely.Originality/valueThis study offers a first examination of the effects of simultaneous cutbacks in personnel and assets. This combined strategy goes further than dismissing employees, since layoffs are linked to the sale of such tangible assets as product lines or manufacturing facilities. By so doing, firms downscale their activities commensurate with the reduction in workforce and are less likely to generate excess workload on the remaining employees.
Making sustainable development sustainable
Authors: Aras Güler , Crowther David 
Published: June 2009

PurposeAlthough all organisations claim to be engaged in sustainable development, research shows that they misunderstand what is involved. This paper aims to reconsider what is meant by sustainability and to show that the way accounting operates in an organisation actually prevents an organisation from recognising sustainable operations.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops a theoretical argument that sustainability depends upon a redefinition of efficiency and shows the problems with the current descriptions of organisational activity.FindingsThe paper shows that efficiency is not demonstrated through cost cutting but through recognising value‐creating activities, and that sustainability cannot be achieved without a consideration of the distribution of the effects of organisational activity.Research limitations/implicationsThe research shows a different model of sustainability which highlights key aspects that are not normally included; it thereby points the way towards further research possibilities.Practical implicationsAn understanding of the key aspects of sustainability will help an organisation in its strategic decision making.Originality/valueThe paper presents a different approach to managing sustainability and also shows the relationship between corporate sustainability and corporate accounting, an area which is normally excluded from the discourse.
Leadership development and leadership effectiveness
Authors: Amagoh Francis 
Published: June 2009

PurposeIt is important that organizations embark on leadership development programs that will enhance leadership effectiveness. The purpose of this article is to identify some leadership development initiatives.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a review of the literature to offer some leadership development practices.FindingsLeadership development should be comprehensive and systematically integrated into the organizational culture in order to produce leaders who can deal adequately with organizational challenges.Practical implicationsOrganizations and leadership developers should use a systemic approach in order to address the current leadership crisis. This paper emphasizes a global perspective and an organizational commitment to leadership development. It is suggested that organizations should have a long‐term focus towards realizing the benefits from investments in leadership development programs. The article offers a number of approaches to the selection and development of leaders at all levels of an organization.Originality/valueAll organizations face the problem of developing good leaders. This paper helps to identify some approaches to leadership development that will enhance leadership effectiveness and organizational performance.
Climbing ring robot for inspection of offshore wind turbines
Authors: Sattar Tariq P. , Leon Rodriguez Hernando , Bridge Bryan 
Published: June 2009

PurposeStructural integrity inspection of offshore wind turbine blades poses problems of gaining access to the blades, danger to human operatives and large costs of removing a blade and transporting it off‐shore for inspection. The purpose of this paper is to show that a climbing robot that can perform in situ blade inspection with micro/nano focus computed axial X‐ray tomography is a solution to find defects in the thickest blade sections and reduce the cost of inspection.Design/methodology/approachThe weight of such an inspection system will be high, typically 200 kg and cross sectional scanner dimensions of 1 × 2 m to envelope a blade. The design of a climbing ring robot that completely encircles a turbine tower, typically 3 m in diameter, will provide the best means of climbing with this payload. Because of the development costs of such a huge robot, the optimal design path is to first prototype a small scale model.FindingsFirst results on such a model are described and from its performance the load carrying capabilities of a full scale version computed. The robot is able to climb either straight up or down, or with a spiralling motion, or rotate around the circumference at the same height. Furthermore, the design is entirely modular thus enabling easy on‐site assembly of the robot.Originality/valueA climbing robot with high payload and versatile motion capability, with adhesive forces between the robot and climbing surface provided entirely by mechanical means rather than by vacuum suction or magnetic force, making the system much safer and easier to manipulate.
Adaptive compliance control of a multi‐legged stair‐climbing robot based on proprioceptive data
Authors: Eich Markus , Grimminger Felix , Kirchner Frank 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe an innovative compliance control architecture for hybrid multi‐legged robots. The approach was verified on the hybrid legged‐wheeled robot ASGUARD, which was inspired by quadruped animals. The adaptive compliance controller allows the system to cope with a variety of stairs, very rough terrain, and is also able to move with high velocity on flat ground without changing the control parameters.Design/methodology/approachThe paper shows how this adaptivity results in a versatile controller for hybrid legged‐wheeled robots. For the locomotion control we use an adaptive model of motion pattern generators. The control approach takes into account the proprioceptive information of the torques, which are applied on the legs. The controller itself is embedded on a FPGA‐based, custom designed motor control board. An additional proprioceptive inclination feedback is used to make the same controller more robust in terms of stair‐climbing capabilities.FindingsThe robot is well suited for disaster mitigation as well as for urban search and rescue missions, where it is often necessary to place sensors or cameras into dangerous or inaccessible areas to get a better situation awareness for the rescue personnel, before they enter a possibly dangerous area. A rugged, waterproof and dust‐proof corpus and the ability to swim are additional features of the robot.Originality/valueContrary to existing approaches, a pre‐defined walking pattern for stair‐climbing was not used, but an adaptive approach based only on internal sensor information. In contrast to many other walking pattern based robots, the direct proprioceptive feedback was used in order to modify the internal control loop, thus adapting the compliance of each leg on‐line.
A 3D grasping system based on multimodal visual and tactile processing
Authors: Grzyb Beata J. , Chinellato Eris , Morales Antonio , del Pobil Angel P. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a novel multimodal approach to the problem of planning and performing a reliable grasping action on unmodeled objects.Design/methodology/approachThe robotic system is composed of three main components. The first is a conceptual manipulation framework based on grasping primitives. The second component is a visual processing module that uses stereo images and biologically inspired algorithms to accurately estimate pose, size, and shape of an unmodeled target object. A grasp action is planned and executed by the third component of the system, a reactive controller that uses tactile feedback to compensate possible inaccuracies and thus complete the grasp even in difficult or unexpected conditions.FindingsTheoretical analysis and experimental results have shown that the proposed approach to grasping based on the concurrent use of complementary sensory modalities, is very promising and suitable even for changing, dynamic environments.Research limitations/implicationsAdditional setups with more complicate shapes are being investigated, and each module is being improved both in hardware and software.Originality/valueThis paper introduces a novel, robust, and flexible grasping system based on multimodal integration.
A modular serpentine rescue robot with climbing ability
Authors: Rimassa Luca , Zoppi Matteo , Molfino Rezia 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present new locomotion and steering modules conceived and designed for rescue serpentine robots with enhanced climbing ability. The locomotion modules apply sock locomotion technology that allows great motion efficiency in rubble and confined environment due to the very high propulsion ratio. The steering joints guarantee good orientation dexterity by exploiting actuation based on smart materials.Design/methodology/approachGreat attention and time is dedicated to the design phase, digital mock‐upping and virtual comparative assessment of different solutions. Mechatronic interdisciplinary design methodology including mechanisms analysis, sensory actuation issues and functional materials characterization, control and communication integration has been adopted.FindingsThe locomotion modules are revised and updated versions improving climbing ability of the socked locomotion module originally proposed by the authors. New steering modules with high orientation workspace, based on smart actuation, are introduced.Research limitations/implicationsThe evaluation of the findings on the field is planned but no experimental result is today available.Practical implicationsAgile serpentine robots are requested for quick and safe rescue and special risky interventions in environments where dense vegetation, rubble and confined spaces prevent human presence. These robots offer invaluable potential help in such risky interventions mainly by being agile in exploring the environment, robust, low cost, reliable, and tele‐operated.Originality/valueThe paper presents original issues in terms of concept and design of instrumental (locomotion and steering) modules for composing modular rescue robots with very high locomotion agility and climbing performances.
Robotic automotive paint curing using thermal signature feedback
Authors: Zeng Fan , Ayalew Beshah , Omar Mohammed 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a new closed‐loop radiative robotic paint curing process that could replace less efficient and bulky convection‐based paint curing processes in automotive manufacturing.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed robotic paint curing processes uses an Ultraviolet LED panel for a heat source, an infra‐red camera for non‐contact thermal signature feedback of cure level, and a robot control strategy that incorporates the cure‐level information in an inverse dynamics control of the robotic manipulator. To demonstrate the advantage of the closed‐loop process in improving cure uniformity, detailed models and discussions of the irradiation process, the robotics and the control strategy are presented.FindingsA simulation‐based comparison of the closed‐loop robotic curing with the open‐loop robotic curing clearly shows the benefits of using thermal signature feedback in improving cure level uniformity.Originality/valueThis is a new approach proposed to exploit immerging technology and improve the efficiency of energy use in an automotive manufacturing process without sacrificing product quality.
Analysis of arc sound characteristics for gas tungsten argon welding
Authors: Wang J.F. , Chen B. , Chen H.B. , Chen S.B. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the characteristics of sound during gas tungsten argon welding (GTAW), which is very important to effectively monitor the welding quality in future by using the information extracted from sound.Design/methodology/approachThe hardware used in the experiment is described. Then the paper researches the influence of welding techniques (gas flow, welding speed, welding current, and arc length) on arc sound and the distribution of the welding sound field. Finally, the relation between welding power and sound are studied based on Fourier transforms and recursive least square methods.FindingsThe sound pressure is affected greatly by gas flow, arc length, and current; welding sound source obeys the dipole model; the sound can be better predicted when the three orders derivative of the welding power are combined together.Originality/valueThis paper provides a new insight into welding sound resource model and a detailed analysis of the influence of the welding sound caused by welding techniques.
A wet‐etch method with improved yield for realizing polysilicon resistors in batch fabrication of MEMS pressure sensor
Authors: Singh Kulwant , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Azam Amir , Akhtar J. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a selective wet‐etching method of boron doped low‐pressure chemical vapour deposition (LPCVD) polysilicon film for the realization of piezoresistors over the bulk micromachined diaphragm of (100) silicon with improved yield and uniformity.Design/methodology/approachThe method introduces discretization of the LPCVD polysilicon film using prior etching for the grid thus dividing each chip on the entire wafer. The selective etching of polysilicon for realizing of piezoresistors is limited to each chip area with individual boundaries.FindingsThe method provides a uniform etching on the entire silicon wafer irrespective of its size and leads to economize the fabrication process in a batch production environment with improved yield.Research limitations/implicationsThe method introduces one extra process step of photolithography and subsequent etching for discretizing the polysilicon film.Practical implicationsThe method is useful to enhance yield while defining metal lines for contact purposes on fabricated electronic structures using microelectronics. Stress developed in LPCVD polysilicon can be removed using proposed approach of discretization of polysilicon film.Originality/valueThe work is an outcome of regular fabrication work using conventional approaches in an R&D environment. The proposed method replaces the costly reactive ion etching techniques with stable reproducibility and ease in its implementation.