bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A localisation system for an indoor rotary‐wing MAV using blade mounted LEDs
Authors: Chi Mak Lin , Whitty Mark , Furukawa Tomonari 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a localisation system for an indoor rotary‐wing micro aerial vehicle (MAV) that uses three onboard LEDs and base station mounted active vision unit.Design/methodology/approachA pair of blade mounted cyan LEDs and a tail mounted red LED are used as on‐board landmarks. A base station tracks the landmarks and estimates the pose of the MAV in real time by analysing images taken using an active vision unit. In each image, the ellipse formed by the cyan LEDs is used for 5 degree of freedom (DoF) pose estimation with yaw estimation from the red LED providing the 6th DoF.FindingsAbout 1‐3.5 per cent localisation error of the MAV at various ranges, rolls and angular speeds less than 45°/s relative to the base station at known location indicates that the MAV can be accurately localised at 9‐12 Hz in an indoor environment.Research limitations/implicationsLine‐of‐sight between the base station and MAV is necessary while limited accuracy is evident in yaw estimation at long distances. Additional yaw sensors and dynamic zoom are among future work.Practical implicationsProvided an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) as the base station equipped with its own localisation sensor, the developed system encourages the use of autonomous indoor rotary‐wing MAVs in various robotics applications, such as urban search and rescue.Originality/valueThe most significant contribution of this paper is the innovative LED configuration allowing full 6 DoF pose estimation using three LEDs, one camera and no fixed infrastructure. The active vision unit enables a wide range of observable flight as the ellipse generated by the cyan LEDs is recognisable from almost any direction.
Magnetic vehicle guidance
Authors: Santos Pedro , Holé Stéphane , Filloy Céline , Fournier Danièle 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a system that provides the driver or the driving assistance system with the lateral position information of the vehicle on the lane in order to detect as early as possible run‐off‐road and then prevent a foreseeable crash.Design/methodology/approachA magnetized tape deposited on the road in the middle of the lane generates a magnetic field which is detected by on‐board sensors. Depending on the distance between the tape and the sensors, accurate positioning information can be estimated.FindingsThe use of at least five sensors makes it possible to obtain a 2 mm‐lateral‐positioning accuracy.Originality/valueMagnetized tapes are relatively cheap to install and provide an accurate vehicle lateral positioning with low ‐cost magneto‐resistance on‐board sensors. In addition , a magnetization variation along the tape would allow information to be coded which could be then transmitted to the driver.
A review of optical fibre radiation dosimeters
Authors: O'Keeffe S. , Fitzpatrick C. , Lewis E. , Al‐Shamma'a A.I. 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed review of radiation dosimetry techniques based on optical fibre dosimeters. It presents a comprehensive bibliography of the current research activities in the area.Design/methodology/approachA range of published work on optical fibre radiation dosimeters are presented, with the merits and limitations discussed. Each radiation dosimetry technique is discussed in turn, providing examples of dosimeters using such techniques reviewed. The main focus is on gamma radiation although other radiation dosimeters are considered.FindingsThis paper provides information on the wide range of research activity into radiation dosimeters. The dose ranges of these dosimeters are presented, along with the advantages and disadvantages of different dosimetry techniques.Originality/valueA comprehensive review of published research in the area of solid radiation dosimetry is presented in this paper. It provides an individual with a review of the various techniques used and most recent research in that field.
Small firms and the challenge of equality, diversity and difference
Authors: Barrett Rowena , Burgess John 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce the papers contributing to this special issue and to locate them within the broader questions about the role of small firms in enabling or alleviating issues of equality, diversity, and difference for various groups in society.Design/methodology/approachThe literature dealing with the issues of equality, diversity, and difference pertaining to the operation of and/or working in smaller firms was reviewed prior to drawing out the key points from the submitted papers and considering the contribution they make to this literature.FindingsOverall, one's these five papers contribute to one's understanding of the issues facing those in business or self‐employment, working in small business or wanting to pursue enterprise.Originality/valueRarely are questions asked about the assumed role small firms play in mitigating social exclusion for a range of groups in society. By addressing questions which explore the challenge of equality, diversity, and difference for small business in their establishment, management, and effective operation using interdisciplinary frameworks and different methodologies, a better understanding of the role of small business in society can be developed.
The Asian business sector and the dynamics of change
Authors: Dhaliwal Spinder , Gray David 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe Asian business community has been noted for its contribution to the UK economy. This vibrant sector of the small to medium‐sized enterprises population serves to illustrate diversity in terms of spanning sectors including manufacturing and services, entertainment and fashion, hotels and property, food and pharmaceuticals. This paper seeks to draw out trends within this increasingly important sector of the economy.Design/methodology/approachThe study reports on a research project which comprises the latest phase in a seven‐year, longitudinal study of the richest 200 Asian business people in the UK.FindingsThe analysis suggests that the Asian business community has delivered significant and sustained growth which is higher than average growth in the UK.Originality/valueFor policy makers and the business support community, this paper offers a greater understanding of the dynamics behind the success stories and thus offers opportunities to tailor any engagement with this community appropriately. For academics it adds to the growing literature of minority ethnic businesses in the UK.
Gender, personal values, strategies and small business performance
Authors: Boohene Rosemond , Sheridan Alison , Kotey Bernice 
Published: April 2008

PurposeWhile most studies concerning gender differences in small business performance have emerged from developed countries, how applicable the results are to transitional economies, where there still exist significant differences in the socialisation of men and women, is not clear. The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of gender on the performance of small businesses in Ghana by exploring the impact of personal values on business owners' choice of strategies, specifically asking, do women and men pursue different business strategies, how do personal values influence their strategies and how do their strategies affect performance?Design/methodology/approachA total of 600 owner‐managers of small retail shops in the Greater Accra Region were surveyed. Results were analysed using the partial least squares approach to structural equation modelling.FindingsThe results suggest that there are gender differences in personal values, which lead to different strategies adopted by women and men, which in turn influence performance; specifically Ghanaian women owner‐managers are more risk‐averse than Ghanaian men, and this affects their pursuit of specific functional strategies and ultimately their performance in varied ways.Research limitations/implicationsFurther studies will need to replicate these findings with other types of businesses, in other locations.Practical implicationsThe results suggest that closer attention should be given to developing the entrepreneurial values of women if the goal of greater economic development is to be achieved in transitional economies.Originality/valueLimited research has been conducted on women and men small business owners in transitional economies such as Ghana. This empirical research provides important insights into this field.
Women and work‐life balance: is home‐based business ownership the solution?
Authors: Walker Elizabeth , Wang Calvin , Redmond Janice 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore self‐employment through home‐based business ownership as a potential solution to the inter‐role conflict experienced by women attempting to balance dual work and family roles.Design/methodology/approachHome‐based businesses (n = 626) were surveyed in Western Australia as part of a larger national study. Data were collected on operator and business characteristics, and specific home‐based business issues (e.g. reasons for preferring a home‐base, management and planning, growth facilitators and barriers). Four‐way comparisons investigating the dynamics of home‐based business ownership between male and female operators and operators with and without dependants were made.FindingsThe attraction of home‐based business ownership is driven predominantly by the flexibility afforded to lifestyle and the ability to balance work and family. While these advantages were more salient for women than for men, gender per se was not a determining factor in why operators started a home‐based business. The more significant determining factor was the issue of dependants.Practical implicationsSelf‐employment, particularly through home‐based business ownership, may well solve some women's necessity to balance work and family. However, it may not be a viable solution for all women, particularly those seeking high financial and career rewards.Originality/valueThis paper contributes empirical findings regarding home‐based businesses which, as a distinct form of small business and self‐employment alternative, still remain very much under‐researched. The paper also addresses the issue of home‐based businesses being emancipatory vehicles for women juggling to manage work and family, and provides findings which question this increasingly populist notion.
Small firms, the paid maternity leave debate in Australia and the business case
Authors: Barrett Rowena , Mayson Susan 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the management of maternity leave in small firms and particularly to explore the perceived costs and benefits of paid maternity leave (PML). PML is a universal right in some countries (i.e. the UK), but not in Australia where most private sector female employees only have access to 12 months unpaid maternity leave. It also aims to explore how the business case for (or against) PML is constructed in small firms.Design/methodology/approachThe study was limited to smaller firms operating in the business services sector in the same regional area. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight employers and female employees in six of these firms. Analysis by theme was undertaken within and across interview transcripts.FindingsNot one of these small firm employers offered PML and the cost of doing so was not considered to outweigh the benefits already realised through the (legislated) unpaid maternity leave scheme. In these firms maternity leave was managed in an informal way with notions of flexibility – give and take – characterising what happens.Originality/valueThe paper addresses the lack of research on access to family‐related leave policies in small firms. Employer and employee views of the issue are drawn upon, the latter not often being heard. The paper contributes to understanding the construction of the business case for a specific issue in smaller firms and human resource management from a resource‐based view more generally in smaller firms.
Working from the margins to inform the centre
Authors: Angove Marilia , Cresswell Caryl , Akhtar Rubina , Rolfe Justine , Brooksbank David , Thomas Brychan 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the Cyfenter Development Partnership action research programme primarily aimed at under‐represented entrepreneurs in Wales. The Welsh Assembly Government and the EQUAL initiative of the European Social Fund support the programme with the objective of informing and developing inclusive policies, strategies and practices within mainstream enterprise support.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology used to identify the needs of under‐represented groups when establishing a business and barriers to the start‐up process has been action research, which combines both information gathering and facilitation of change.FindingsThe research data indicate that all under‐represented groups face similar challenges and issues and many experiences are not exclusive to any one particular group. Financial risk, lack of collateral and self‐finance were significant issues for the under‐represented groups.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the overall response rate of 12 per cent for the telephone and postal surveys was low, it was felt that the responses were sufficient for the study to proceed as further qualitative data gathering was undertaken.Practical implicationsThrough the empowerment of excluded entrepreneurs, to express and suggest potential solutions, it is expected that policies and practices can be leveraged where enterprise support can become more relevant and appropriate for all. It is also expected that this will lead a greater number of under‐represented entrepreneurs to access mainstream enterprise support.Originality/valueA key objective of the programme is to create and facilitate a platform for direct communication between under‐represented groups, policy makers and enterprise support provision, within a solutions‐oriented context.
Mixed tenure estates
Authors: Kempton Jim 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to define mixed tenure estates as comprising any mix of social housing tenants with: private renting tenants (who therefore have private landlords); shared owners (i.e. those who buy a part share in their home, the remaining share being typically retained by a social landlord); owner occupiers (bought outright, or those paying a mortgage on the whole value of the property).Design/methodology/approachA literature review and interviews with Registered Social Landlord (RSL) personnel are used to inform the discussion contained in this paper. The term “Asset Management” is used to describe the management of estates, including maintenance, repair and other physical investment. Does mixed tenure really have different asset management needs from mono tenure estates? The research methodology is based on a case study of a social housing provider, supported by semi‐structured interviews.FindingsThe main conclusion of this paper is that, along with a number of other issues, inter‐working at the case study RSL needs to be improved if mixed tenure estates are to succeed.Originality/valueLittle work has been undertaken in this specific area, and the research should be of interest to a wide audience including social housing developers, urban researchers and central and local government.
Evolution of codes for structural design in Mexico
Authors: Alcocer Sergio M. , Castaño Víctor M. 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of structural design code development in Mexico, as an example of how code evolution has taken place in many countries, and to discuss the challenges faced in improving code compliance and reducing vulnerability.Design/methodology/approachAll building codes for Mexico City (1920‐2004) and current codes in Mexico were analyzed and compared in terms of their scope and contents. Emphasis is placed on understanding how design requirements, professional liabilities and overall performance requirements have evolved.FindingsStructural codes have become more refined and complex, including at each revision the current state‐of‐the‐art knowledge. However, code compliance and code misinterpretation are prevalent, mainly because users are not familiar with the concepts and technologies involved. Also, it is stated that government authorities lack the technical capacity to identify code misinterpretations. Finally, it is stated that, for non‐engineered construction guidelines, other educational sources are needed in lieu of merely enforcing codes.Research limitations/implicationsSystematic research aimed at assessing the level of code compliance is needed.Practical implicationsA valuable source of changes and challenges in code implementation and compliance for students and practitioners is provided.Originality/valueThis paper summarizes information on the evolution of Mexican structural codes and offers a critique of the challenges and need for improving code implementation and reducing building vulnerability.
Computational design concept analysis: a Nordic comparison of four apartment buildings
Authors: Saari Arto 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a systematic procedure to analyse the cost‐effectiveness of design concepts in residential construction, at the same time profiling differences in design concepts between four Nordic countries.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology is computational. The study involved a comparison of design concepts and computational construction costs in a Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and a Finnish apartment house built by Nordic subsidiaries of a larger international construction corporation. A reference value (type‐of‐space cost calculation) and a cost estimate relating to the design concept (conceptual cost estimate) were calculated for each project using the Finnish method of calculation. The results of the calculated construction costs were compared.FindingsThe construction costs of the Swedish and Danish design concepts were high in comparison with the Finnish reference values. In both cases, the high construction costs were the result of low space efficiency and large window surface‐areas. The design concepts of the Norwegian and Finnish projects were cost‐efficient.Originality/valueThe paper offers a systematic way to analyse design concepts in residential construction and profiles the differences in design concepts between four Nordic countries from the point‐of‐view of cost‐effectiveness.
Fire safety in the design and operation of student housing facilities
Authors: Hassanain Mohammad A. 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the design and operation factors that affect the provision of fire‐safe student housing facilities, and to present the development of a proposed operational framework for fire safety evaluation of student housing facilities.Design/methodology/approachThe paper identifies the causes of fire accidents in student housing facilities and classifies the factors that make it a high fire‐risk type of facility. It identifies several common design deficiencies contributing to student housing fires and reviews measures to prevent fires in student housing facilities. The paper also presents a series of guidelines for use by facility managers for the provision of safe facilities.FindingsThe proposed operational framework for fire safety evaluation in student housing facilities consists of five sequential processes, namely: archival and document evaluation; development of an audit worksheet; commencement of the walk‐through inspection; reporting of inspection findings; and development of a plan for remedial actions.Originality/valueThis paper serves to increase the awareness about fires and their devastating effects in residential university facilities. The paper provides practical value to the design professional of student housing projects, student housing administrators, and facility managers responsible for the daily operation of student housing facilities.
Marketing and sustainability
Authors: Jones Peter , Clarke‐Hill Colin , Comfort Daphne , Hillier David 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to raise for debate among marketers the issue of the relationship between marketing and sustainability.Design/methodology/approachAn opinion piece, that presents the views of four authors on the current state of the debate in this field.FindingsThere is little consensus on these matters. There are those who believe that marketing and sustainability simply cannot be reconciled, while there are others who argue that marketing can contribute to the development of sustainable consumption.Originality/valueThe paper opens up the debate on a subject that is clearly going to be high on the agenda for years to come.
Taking action: new forms of student and manager involvement in business education
Authors: Houman Andersen Poul , Rask Morten 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the usefulness of situated learning in business education.Design/methodology/approachIllustrative case study.FindingsThe increasingly popular situated learning approach holds some possible solutions to the emerging crisis of business schools' educational models. The key challenge in our view is to develop an area where action‐oriented learning can take place – and take place in a form that resembles the key idea of situated learning – that learners must become involved in a knowledge‐production process.Research limitations/implicationsSituated approaches to learning, such as communities of practice (CoP), are not directly transferable to business schools' curricular teaching without considering the power relations and structural characteristics of the actors potentially constituting the CoP in which learning is to unfold.Originality/valueThis paper addresses the issue of power relations and structural characteristics and shows through an illustrative case study, how situated learning principles may be practiced in order to become part of the pedagogical models in business schools. In doing so, the links between lecturers, students, and managers can be strengthened.
Profiling organ donors in Egypt using intelligent modeling techniques
Authors: Mostafa M. 
Published: April 2008

PurposeThis study uses intelligent modeling techniques with the purpose of examining the effect of various demographic, cognitive and psychographic factors on organ donation in Egypt.Design/methodology/approachTwo artificial neural network models (multi‐layer perceptron neural network and probabilistic neural network) are compared to two standard statistical methods (linear discriminant analysis and logistic regression). The variable sets considered are sex, age, educational level, religion, altruistic values, perceived benefits/risks of organ donation, organ donation knowledge, attitudes toward organ donation, and intention to donate organs.FindingsThe results show that artificial neural networks outperform traditional statistical techniques in profiling potential organ donors due to their robustness and flexibility of modeling algorithms.Originality/valueThe paper shows how it is possible to identify various dimensions of organ donation behavior by uncovering patterns in the dataset, and also shows the classification abilities of two neural network techniques.