bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A stability theory for model systems
Authors: Villacampa Y. , Verdú F. , Pérez A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to carry out a theoretical study of the stability of the mathematical models defined in a class of systems. Furthermore, it will be supposed that the models have been obtained from experimental data and by means of the application of a methodology. The studies carried out in this paper are, on one hand, the theoretical framework for an analysis of the sensitivity and stability of a type of systems; on the other hand, they supplement the studies carried out by the authors, in which, using a computational program, the sensitivity of the mathematical models is analyzed with respect to a type of perturbation.Design/methodology/approachInitially, a class of systems is considered that are denominated quantifiable systems, in which model systems are defined that are determined by a set and a family of relationships. An initial study of the sensitivity of the mathematical models to perturbations in the experimental data lead to a concept of sensitive and stable models that forms the basis of the theory of stability developed in this paper. Furthermore, this permits a definition of the stability function for the set of the perturbations and, consequently, a determination of stable models according to the defined theoretical structure.FindingsAn analysis of the sensitivity and stability of mathematical models in quantifiable systems from a systems theory perspective will be fundamental for the determination of mathematical model stability in environmental systems.Originality/valueThe studies carried out in this paper supposes an advance in the study and modeling of a type of systems that the authors have denominated as quantifiable systems, applicable to the study of environmental systems and supplementing the numeric studies carried out by the authors.
Covering properties in intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces
Authors: Gallego Lupiáñez Francisco 
Published: June 2007

PurposeD.Çoker constructed the fundamental theory of intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new concept of compactness and a definition of paracompactness for intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces, and obtain several preservation properties.Design/methodology/approachTwo new covering properties in intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces are defined and studied.FindingsRelations on these new properties and covering properties on fuzzy topology in the Chang's sense are obtained.Research/limitations/implicationsClearly, this paper is devoted to intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces.Practical implicationsThe main applications are in the mathematical field.Originality/valueThe paper shows original results on fuzzy topology.
A simulation study of a new family of test statistics for the Behrens‐Fisher problem
Authors: Angel Pardo Julio , del Carmen Pardo María 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo provide a new family of test statistics to solve the Behrens‐Fisher problem and to compare it with the classic test statistics through a different simulation studies.Design/methodology/approachA general procedure for testing composite hypothesis to k samples of different size problems on the basis of the Renyi's divergence is used to develop a new parametric family of test statistics that contains as a particular case the classical likelihood ratio test. The scope of the paper is to find out if some member of the new family of test statistics it is preferable to the classical ones.FindingsSome members of the new parametric family of test statistics behave remarkably well in comparison to the classic ones, as the different computational studies reveal.Originality/valueThis paper offers a new way to solve the Behrens‐Fisher problem that it is preferable in some cases to the known procedures.
Anticorrosion pigment based on calcium titanate with a perovskite structure
Authors: Kalendová A. , Veselý D. , Kalenda P. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo synthesise calcium titanate with a perovskite structure as an anticorrosion pigment for metal protecting paints.Design/methodology/approachCalcium titanate was synthesised from titanium dioxide and calcium carbonate at high temperature. The pigment obtained was characterised by means of X‐ray diffraction, particle size distribution measurement and scanning electron microscopy. The pigment obtained was further characterised with regard to the parameters required for paint formulation; its specific mass was determined by oil consumption and critical pigment volume concentration. The synthesised calcium titanate was used to prepare epoxy coatings with varying contents of the anticorrosion pigment. The coating was tested for physical‐mechanical properties and in corrosive atmospheres. The results were compared with titanium dioxide that served as a starting material for calcium titanate preparation.FindingsCalcium titanate was prepared from materials that do not add any impurities to the anticorrosion properties of the pigment. It was identified that calcium titanate of perovskite structure is a highly efficient anticorrosion pigment for paints.Practical implicationsCalcium titanate can be utilised for the preparation of anticorrosion paints to protect metal bases from corrosion.Originality/valueThe method of synthesising calcium titanate as an anticorrosion pigment is new. The literature has not yet described the use of calcium titanate as a pigment with inhibitive properties in paints. From an ecologic standpoint, the application of a new anticorrosion pigment for paints presents a highly positive trend.
Is there a strategy behind buying advertising time and space?
Authors: Rotfeld Herbert Jack 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to note the advertising business overspending on advertising messages that is often done with minimal consideration to the impact or effects of many consumer exposures.Design/methodology/approachThe paper notes textbooks statement of advertising budget spending as the money needed to attain pragmatic communications goals and compares this to the ongoing business reality of media planning that mostly devolves into maximization of audience exposures to mass media vehicles carrying the brand or company name.FindingsThe pragmatic business need is for more questioning the value of media spending, not as return on investment, but how it contributes to overall communications concerns. The media planners dilemma is the uncertainty of the effects of every additional audience exposure, thus (and too often) they take the easy route and simply resolve to purchase as many target audience impressions as possible for as low a price as can be negotiated.Originality/valueThis paper asks an important question that many people in the advertising business try to avoid: “Why is so much money being spent?”. While it is difficult to track the impact of every single vehicle placement, the media planners should at least try to question what is the real strategy behind efforts to maximize target audience exposures to vehicles carrying the company logo.
The state of wireless laptop lending programs
Authors: Holden Hugh , Lei Hsieh Ma 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to learn, by way of a survey, what librarians at US colleges and universities were doing and the issues they were encountering as they considered, developed, or maintained wireless laptop computer lending programs (WLLP).Design/methodology/approachPHPSurveyor was used to construct a web‐based survey of librarians subscribed to any of 19 library‐related listservs. An invitation to participate in the survey was posted to each listserv on the same day.FindingsStudent usage of WLLPs ranged from extremely heavy to very light. Difficulties with library WLLPs were variously characterized as minor to stifling. Nevertheless, patterns emerged in the statistics as well as the additional comments given by many librarians. For example, librarians are much more ambivalent than the “experts” on the supposed cost savings generated by “going wireless”.Practical implicationsThe results of this survey are useful to libraries planning their own WLLPs, providing insights into what to expect and what to account for, including (and beyond) equipment costs.Originality/valueBy comparing what was found by the two most relevant earlier studies with these new findings, this study provides a more current picture of WLLPs in academic libraries.
Factors Affecting the Development of Information Infrastructure in Africa
Authors: Rexwhite Enakrire T. , Onyenania O. George 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper sets to elicit the factors affecting the development of information infrastructure in africa.Design/methodology/approachA Descriptive method was employed in looking at the various infrastructure that we have, based on the usefullness in accomplishing a task.FindingsThe findings revealed that there are some factors militating against the development/functionality of information infrastructure in the African context, but this research proves to a large extent that these inadequacies of information infrastructure in Africa are gradually being met. This leads to economic development and nation building in every area of our endeavours because infrastructure has the potential to improve and develop economic, social academic, moral and environmental background in our contemporary society. This is because information and communication infrastructure requires widespread technological resources for its operation.Originality/valueThis research and its findings will assist Africans and other nations on the needs of Africans' information infrastructureand how best to care for their information infrastructure in areas of improving on their software/infrastructure production and maintenance.
Illuminating the core of Singapore school leadership preparation
Authors: Hean Lim Lee 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine distinctive features that have surfaced in school leadership development programmes for more than two decades in Singapore.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on information gathered from existing literature and the author's involvement in the programmes.FindingsThe Diploma in Educational Adminstration (DEA) programme and the Leaders in Education Programme (LEP), offered by the National Institute of Education of the Nanyang Technological University, primarily adopted the mentoring model and innovation model respectively. Irrespective of the models, evidence is provided to illuminate the co‐creation approach as well as synergy with the schools and Ministry of Education that permeate both programmes.Practical implicationsInstead of discarding the past as obsolete, it is suggested that programme developers take cognizance of local distinctive features in leadership preparatory programmes and capitalize their strengths, in their attempts to generate the next wave of seascape change.Originality/valueProvides pertinent aspects of experience over a period of more than two decades of school leadership preparation in Singapore that could be of useful reference to practitioners and researchers in the field.
Reviewing and improving a clinical effectiveness department's quality assurance model
Authors: Hayes Sally 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to reflect on and share learning during reviewing and improving one primary care trust's clinical effectiveness department quality assurance model. It is recognized that the existing model focused on quality guideline production whilst implementation was almost unaddressed further than dissemination.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the current strategy was conducted to identify the main issues followed by in‐depth consideration and application of a new QA model.FindingsThe case study reveals weaknesses in the existing QA model and potential improvements when a new QA model such as the European Foundation for Quality Management is applied – ensuring an outcome‐based QA method.Originality/valueThis article will be valuable to individuals interested in proposing, developing, ratifying and disseminating clinical guidelines with the intention of improving clinical outcomes.
Motivating Nigerian doctors for improved health care delivery
Authors: Olu Ogunrin Florence , Ogunrin Olubunmi , Akerele Adebayo 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine perceptions of need dissatisfaction and need importance in the two groups of orthodox medical doctors in Nigeria, relating these motivational variables to quality in‐patient care.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on Maslow's theory, and the question format in Heller and Porter's study; 33 government‐employed doctors, and 29 private practitioners were surveyed. The “t‐test” and Mann‐Whitney test were employed in statistical analysis.FindingsThe paper finds that the two groups differed significantly in perceptions of need dissatisfaction with respect to 13 of 26 need items; and in the importance attached to “opportunity to belong to social groups” and pay. When absolute values are considered, the overall picture suggests that the two groups are most dissatisfied with pay, physiological, security, self‐actualization, and transcendence needs.Practical implicationsIf doctors as a microcosm of Nigerian workers are to replace poor work habits with quality concepts, their needs for better pay must be satisfied to enable them to meet their physiological needs, and better facilities provided in hospitals to support skill utilization. An economy functions as a system. Doctors consume and render services. If they do not have to procure personal power‐generating sets, self‐protection, and other services that ought to be accessed as public utilities, they will be more emotionally engaged with their tasks.Originality/valueThe main contribution in this paper lies in the evaluation of the motivational needs of Nigerian doctors, healthcare being fundamental to life, and the emphasis on centrality of employee motivation in any planned service improvement efforts.
Processes and outcomes for acute myocardial infarction patients
Authors: Luthi Jean‐Christophe , McClellan William M. , Dana Flanders W. , Pitts Stephen R. , Burnand Bernard 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine whether process quality indicators for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) one associated with outcome indicators (hospital mortality and early readmission).Design/methodology/approachA retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients discharged from three Swiss university hospitals with a primary or secondary International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD‐10) AMI code in 1999. A total of 1,129 patients' records were abstructed. Demographic characteristics and risk factors at admission were recorded. The main ECG and laboratory findings were further abstracted as well as hospital and discharge management and treatment. The main outcome measure was process quality indicators derived from evidence‐based guidelines, and hospital mortality and early readmissions.FindingsAfter exclusions, 577 patients with AMI were eligible for this study. The mean (SD) age was 68.2 (13.9). In the assessment of quality indicators patients with potential contra‐indications were excluded. Among cohorts of “ideal candidates” for specific interventions, aspirin was not prescribed within 24 hours after admission in 33 (6.2 percent) patients. Among those, 17 (51.5 percent) died (p<0.0001). The adjusted OR for no aspirin after admission was 3.61 (95 percent CI 1.11‐11.77) for hospital mortality. Further, 78 (19.5 percent) patients did not receive β‐blockers at discharge. Among them nine (11.5 percent) were readmitted (p=0.133). The adjusted OR for no β‐blockers at discharge was 2.15 (95 percent CI 0.86‐5.41) for readmissions. Among patients with AMI, not prescribing aspirin within 24 hours after admission was associated with hospital mortality. However, process indicators derived from evidence‐based guidelines were not related to early readmission in this study.Originality/valueThe paper stresses the importance of clinicians confronting their decisions with recommendations of evidence‐based guidelines for the management and treatment of AMI patients.
A formula of consensus in theoretical descriptions of the reality spectrum
Authors: Svensson Göran 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe topic of this paper strikes the golden mean rather than the extreme ones. The purpose is to describe frameworks and processes that strive to balance and unite conceptual opposites (so‐called “halves”) of the reality spectrum in different areas of literature.Design/methodology/approachTwo related frames of reference in the area of inventory management are used to underpin and illustrate the frameworks and the processes to identify and manage conceptual halves in theoretical descriptions of the reality spectrum.FindingsThe tendency to focus on just halves (or lesser pieces) of the reality spectrum in theoretical descriptions of intangibles derived from research efforts creates a kind of blinkers‐syndrome, which is not enough to achieve a thorough understanding of the reality spectrum at hand.Research limitations/implicationsCurrent and forthcoming theoretical descriptions of intangibles would benefit from paying attention to the underlying message transmitted through the formula of consensus. It is important to remember that the formula of consensus is not only restricted to the counterparts, but also stresses the importance of the reality spectrum between conceptual halves in terms of the compatibility and the complement between the counterparts.Originality/valueThere are numerous halves in theoretical descriptions of the reality spectrum that are related to one another in areas such as constructs, strategies, perspectives, approaches, methodologies and principles. A formula of consensus is therefore introduced which consists of three ingredients (i.e. counterview; compatibility; and complement). It contributes to bridging the dissension of conceptual halves over time and across contexts in theoretical descriptions of the reality spectrum.
Development of a mathematical model for the heat transfer of the system man – clothing – environment
Authors: Geršak Jelka , Marčič Milan 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo develop a mathematical model of the heat transfer from human body to environmental air that will be numerically solved by a personal computer.Design/methodology/approachDevelopment of the heat transfer model for the system man – clothing – environment is based on studying all forms of dry heat transfer (radiation, convection and conduction).FindingsThe advantage of the model for heat transfer is the ability of the fast evaluation of heat transfer for various textile materials incorporated into the clothing system under different ambient conditions.Originality/valueModelling the heat transfer is original and has an important contribution to thermal comfort.
Research approaches in logistics
Authors: Craighead Christopher W. , Hanna Joe B. , Gibson Brian J. , Meredith Jack R. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to track the evolution of logistics research with a focus on the methods and orientation of the research from the past to the present. Specifically, this paper investigates the evolution of logistics research methodologies in an attempt to address previous calls for a paradigm discussion aimed at assessing the current direction and proposing a future direction for research in the logistics discipline.Design/methodology/approachThe authors chose a previously established framework which describes and evaluates alternative research paradigms. A content analysis of articles in selected journals allows published research of the logistics discipline to be evaluated and categorized. The categorization process uses a two‐dimensional framework which then allows the authors to classify research into cells in a matrix which represent a variety of research paradigms.FindingsThe results illustrate that the methodologies employed in logistics have evolved during the period of analysis. The logistics discipline appears to focus on survey‐based research in an attempt to examine attitudinal and behavioral aspects of logistics interactions. Significant amounts of research are also conducted with simulation and mathematical modeling while case study and action research methods comprise a relatively small but growing portion of published logistics research. Nevertheless, the results of the research support the conclusion that the logistics discipline is diversifying its research efforts and expanding the array of issues addressed.Research limitations/implicationsThe results are based on a thorough literature review along with the use of well established research frameworks and methodologies. Nevertheless, the research focuses on analyzing the content of logistics discipline research in specific outlets and during specific periods of time. Therefore, while the authors believe the results provide a useful guide for assessing the evolution of research in the discipline, it is not all‐inclusive in nature.Practical implicationsBased on our research results in general logistics, researchers appear to be responding to the evolution of the discipline by expanding their efforts to conduct applied research. It appears that common interests are being identified and in many cases, academicians and practitioners are working together to build an alliance designed to benefit the discipline by building on the strengths of each group.Originality/valueResearch plays an important role in furthering any discipline by enhancing our understanding of issues pertinent to those studying and practicing the discipline. This paper helps academicians and practitioners of the logistics discipline to better understand the direction of the profession and to assist us in shaping the future of the discipline.
How do supplier relationships contribute to success in conference and events management?
Authors: Ogden Susan M. , McCorriston Eileen 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to report the findings from a survey of UK conference and event managers, which highlights the benefits that can accrue from supplier management within this sector.Design/methodology/approachA survey of venue managers covering a cross‐section of venue types was used.FindingsA significant proportion of venue managers report having long‐term supplier relationships, placing considerable value on the non‐financial benefits that can accrue from long‐term supplier relations featuring mutual trust and good working relationships. These include consistency, responsiveness and flexibility in service delivery. Additionally, the familiarity of regular suppliers with the venue and its procedures, can lead to seamless service delivery to the customer and free‐up venue managers time.Research limitations/implicationsThe research design provides a one‐sided view of supplier relationships.Practical implicationsAttention is drawn to the performance benefits arising from building supplier relationships and offers guidance as to how these can be sustained by avoiding the pitfalls on long‐term relationships. In doing so, the findings legitimise the importance of taking non‐financial considerations into account when awarding or renewing supply contracts.Originality/valueThis paper applies lessons emerging from research on supplier relationships to a growing, but under‐researched, sector of the hospitality industry.