bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
From management science to sociology
Authors: Stokes Paul A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to argue that sociology is in need of reconstruction on a theoretical and conceptual foundation of cybernetics, specifically, managerial cybernetics and to show how this hitherto unsuccessful task might be brought about.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is one of a rigorous and deep querying of the reasons for the lack of successful fit heretofore between sociology and cybernetics. By taking a critical, historical and philosophical approach to the development of sciences it opens possibilities for the reconstruction of sociology as a “new science” based on the foundation of cybernetics, specifically the managerial cybernetics of Stafford Beer.FindingsThe work argues that the appropriate conceptual foundation for the social sciences is the realm of communication and control, ideas that were given a rigorous formulation in cybernetics, information theory and systems thinking since the 1940s. Many people have seen the prima facie appropriateness of these ideas for the study of human society and numerous attempts have been made to apply them. Almost, all of these efforts have been failures, at least from a sociological point of view. The paper suggests that the problem with all such previous attempts is that they consisted of too direct an application of cybernetics to sociology, entailing a metaphoric reduction that threatened the intellectual integrity of the discipline. Work in the history of sciences suggests that, whereas deep theoretical, foundational work may well be achieved for a realm in the abstract, so to speak, it is when attempts are made to apply these results to more phenomenal domains, to which in principle they are deemed appropriate and relevant, that problems of an apparent “lack of fit” arise. It has been found that a group of intermediating concepts is necessary to draw the two domains together in a workable fit. This process has been called “finalization of science”.Practical implicationsOf immediate value is the reconstruction of sociology as a cybernetically informed science of society that actually delivers theoretical, analytical, research and practical results.Originality/valueThe paper represents a highly original synthesis drawn from the history and philosophy of science development to yield immediate and useful results.
Stafford Beer's contribution to management science – renewal and development
Authors: Adams Denis , Haynes Doug 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper sets out to draw on the insights of “Stafford Beer, the whole man” as portrayed within the Stafford Beer Archive at Liverpool John Moores University.Design/methodology/approachAfter reviewing these seminal contributions, the authors seek to use evidence from published texts, restricted documents, and from personal conversations to present how he operated as a practitioner, reflecting on the craft of how he explored the nature of novel situations, performing the simultaneous roles of guide, philosopher and friend.FindingsThe authors attempt to present a perspective of Stafford Beer's (SB) particular contributions to the discipline of management science as an opportunity to the profession for renewal and development, in particular, around managerial cybernetics.Practical implicationsThe final section presents the passion of the authors that the archive should be dedicated to a “living connection” as Stafford had wished.Originality/valueThis study articulately flags up SB's contribution to management science.
AXSYS: an intelligent system for e‐learning
Authors: Rickett Frank 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper seeks to explore the issues surrounding the deployment of expert systems technologies in a contemporary online educational environment.Design/methodology/approachA prototype system was designed and implemented using a small knowledge base. The research was centred on two aspects of system performance: the mechanism for the acquisition of knowledge, and the quality of the dialogue generated for the end‐user as judged by the level of circuitous discourse that was encountered.FindingsIdentifies the potential benefits of creating a visual interface with graphical representations of knowledge, as an aid to non‐technical teaching staff in deploying the system without additional technical support. Confirms the problem of end‐user discourse lacking focus, but identifies a potential solution arising from an emergent property of the visual interface.Research limitations/implicationsAs a pilot study it is confined to focusing on just two aspects of such intelligent systems in academia. The research notes, but does not explore, the potential offered by consulting diverse online resources automatically. It also does not consider the pedagogic aspects of curriculum‐oriented knowledge‐based systems.Practical implicationsThe research suggests that, with appropriate modifications to system input and output characteristics, the expert system paradigm has a potential role as an online tool for e‐learning.Originality/valueThis is a large area for research in which little contemporary work appears to be taking place. Presents the possibility of introducing intelligent systems into e‐learning roles.
Symbiosis and the viable system model
Authors: Leonard Allenna 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to suggest symbiosis could be a metaphor for finding ways to help countries that are challenged to become economically and socially viable. Beer's viable system model (VSM), which also has biological roots could be applied to look for gaps in the conditions for viability and to seek to fill them through collaborative arrangements.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual paper suggesting various symbiotic processes in biology could inform actions in the social environment.FindingsConcepts from biological and environmental sciences can be applied to social conditions. The viable system model provides a framework for such applications.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper presents general ideas and some examples of possibilities for symbiotic collaboration. Opportunities for symbiosis to be applied to the social arena would emerge through exploration of local conditions.Practical implicationsMuch could be accomplished at various scales through imaginative collaboration. The natural world provides models and metaphors to stimulate thinking about collaboration.Originality/valueThe author suggests that the phenomenon of symbiosis in the natural world could provide useful concepts to apply to situations where countries and regions that are not viable or viable enough in the global marketplace. The VSM is discussed regarding a framework to integrate opportunities for collaboration.
Cybernetics of culture
Authors: Rowe James 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to argue that culture is our primeval management that has its roots the same desire for control that management does. The paper explores the fundamental cognitive systems that allow us to create culture.Design/methodology/approachThe paper applies basic systems concepts to the notion of culture and draws parallels with other cybernetic processes in order to consider the means of developing culture as a systemic possibility and/or inevitability.FindingsWhere management is reductive relying on cause and effect to apply its models to organising, culture is emergent and relies on correspondence to develop mutual models of organising.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper explores the creation of culture from a systems perspective and so further work could be devised to consider the demise of specific cultures such as the entropy of culture and its radical change in crisis.Practical implicationsThe paper is attempting to demonstrate that organisations may need to see culture along with structure and management as a control issue. That culture is at the heart of the individual and in the ether of the organisation and so the cybernetics of culture should not be considered as an adjunct to the management of the organisation but seminal to it.Originality/valueThe paper attempts to consider culture as a cybernetic process of development.
Newlook ASC, new WOSC address, machine translation
Authors: Andrew Alex M. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo discuss the announcement of plans for invigoration of the American Society for Cybernetics, with reference to that society's web site for details.Design/methodology/approachThe aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest. New arrangements for the WOSC web site and associated internet items are explained. Illustrations are given of limitations of simple machine translation.FindingsThe ASC is alive and well. The WOSC web site is accessible despite the discontinuation of the British Library facility. Simple machine translation can produce bizarre results.Practical implicationsDevelopments in the ASC will be worth watching, new WOSC details should be noted, and results of simple machine translation need to be used with care.Originality/valueIt is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.
A new look at the Heisenberg's uncertainty principle
Authors: Dutta Majumder Dwijesh K. , Dutta Swapan K. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo develop a mathematical and algorithmic approach of avoiding the limitations of deterministically computing the values of energy, time, position and momentum imposed by Heisenberg's uncertainity principle (HUP) which is of profound significance from the point of view of some emerging science and technology like quantum computing, nano scale technology and chaotic dynamical systems.Design/methodology/approachA parametric method of establishing deterministic solutions for energy and momentum on the basis of quantized energy limits (instead of HUP) if developed in the non‐infinite non‐zero quantized energy limits where hidden deterministic solutions can be obtained for micro/nano structures.FindingsThe philosophical foundations of quantum mechanics as developed by Max Planck, Neils Bohrz, Werner Heisenburg, Dirac and Edwein Schrodinger is based on a duality concept of complimentarity notions. In most general logical sense for any physical reality qualitative dualism have to have a quantitative dualism may be hidden or virtual. The upper and lower limits of the dynamical quantum mechanical observables are determined based on the dimensional considerations for the physical constants H, C, G and H0. The conceptual basis and mathematical framework of the paper in based Norbert Wiener's work on theory of cybernetics and D. Dutta Majumdars' unified cybernetic and general dynamical systems theory.Research limitations/implicationsThe testability of the theory needs to be established.Originality/valueWithout challenging HUP this is a contribution of tremendous practical implications.
Homomorphisms of fuzzy recognizers
Authors: Chaudhari S.R. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to develop an algorithm/methodology for the reduction of a fuzzy recognizer through an algebraic concept such as homomorphism.Design/methodology/approachThe approach of this research is to introduce the concepts, compatible with the purpose of this paper, and then to find a necessary and sufficient condition for the reduction of a fuzzy recognizer.FindingsA fuzzy Σ‐recognizer M with non‐empty fuzzy initial state and the behavior A is reduced if and only if it is isomorphic to MA.Research limitations/implicationsThe research proposes an algebraic method for the reduction of a fuzzy recognizer. The problem of finding dispensable fuzzy productions of a regular fuzzy grammar may be tackled by the use this algebraic method, as fuzzy recognizers and fuzzy regular grammars are equivalent.Originality/valueThe concepts and the methodology are original. The work is useful to the researchers in the field of fuzzy automata, fuzzy grammars and pattern recognition.
Inhibitive action of Carica papaya extracts on the corrosion of mild steel in acidic media and their adsorption characteristics
Authors: Okafor P.C. , Ebenso E.E. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo evaluate the effect of different parts of Carica papaya (leaves (LV), seeds (SD), heart wood (HW) and bark (BK)) as eco‐friendly and non‐toxic mild‐steel corrosion inhibitors in H2SO4 at 30 to 60 oC.Design/methodology/approachAcid extracts of the different parts of Carica papaya were used as inhibitors in various corrosion tests. Gravimetric and gasometric techniques were used to characterise the mechanism of inhibition.FindingsThe LV, SD, HW and BK extracts were found to inhibit mild steel corrosion in H2SO4. The inhibition efficiencies of the plant's part extracts follow the trend: LV > SD > HW > BK. Inhibition efficiency increased with extracts concentration but decreased with temperature. Physical adsorption of the phytochemical components of the plant on the metal surface is proposed as the mechanism of inhibition. The experimental data fits well into the Langmuir and Temkin adsorption isotherms.Practical implicationsThe plant extracts can be used in chemical cleaning and picking processes.Originality/valueThe research provides information on the possible use of the different parts of Carica papaya as sources of cheap eco‐friendly and non‐toxic corrosion inhibitors.
Novel solutions to new problems in paper deinking
Authors: Fricker A. , Thompson R. , Manning A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to describe and evaluate the traditional methods for effective ink removal during the recycling of printed papers. Additionally, novel techniques for dealing with the newer “difficult to deink” inks such as toners from photocopiers, UV‐cured ink films and liquid toner suspensions or Electroinks® are to be evaluated.Design/methodology/approachHigh intensity ultrasound was applied to pulps derived from papers printed with these newer inks in order to evaluate its effectiveness in detaching the inks from paper and establishing the resultant ink particle size distributions.FindingsWhen exposed to ultrasound at a frequency of 20 kHz, it was found that “difficult to deink” pulps did exhibit significant ink detachment. In the case of toners, temperature did have an effect on particle breakdown with larger numbers of particles produced at temperatures well below the softening point which was attributed to a greater brittleness of the toner at lower temperatures. Electroinks® can be effectively de‐inked by exposure to ultrasound coupled with washing under neutral conditions. With all the inks investigated, exposure to ultrasound resulted in the detached ink having particle size distributions that can be removed by conventional flotation and washing techniques.Research limitations/implicationsThe exposure of the pulp to ultrasound was only carried out using a batch‐wise process. A future development would be to use a continuous flow system incorporating an annular ultrasound horn.Practical implicationsIntroducing ultrasound exposure into a conventional deinking plant, all post‐consumer printed waste paper could be deinked without the use of deinking chemicals.Originality/valueThe findings are of interest to those in paper recycling.
Triazolic compounds as corrosion inhibitors for copper in hydrochloric acid
Authors: El Issami S. , Bazzi L. , Mihit M. , Hammouti B. , Kertit S. , Ait Addi E. , Salghi R. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo correlate the inhibitory effect of triazole compounds on the corrosion of copper in HCl at various temperatures by semi‐empirical molecular orbital theory.Design/methodology/approachTwo triazoles were selected as the best inhibitors among the triazole compounds tested. Gravimetric and electrochemical measurements were conducted.FindingsCorrelation between inhibition efficiency and calculation of molecular orbital of triazole compounds was obtained. Cu(I)‐triazole complex formation was confirmed by UV spectroscopy.Research limitations/implicationsThe calculation of energetic levels of molecular orbital may be a tool to explain the classification of inhibitor efficiency.Practical implicationsThe theoretical calculation is a complementary mean to selecting an efficient inhibitor among a given series. Good agreement between the experimental methods explored and theoretical calculations was observed.Originality/valueThe originality of this work was the finding of the correlation between energetic levels of orbital molecular and inhibitor efficiency of triazole compounds. The confirmation of the formation of Cu(I)‐triazole by UV‐visible spectroscopy was also new.
Mannich base: a cost effective, low temperature curing agent for epoxides
Authors: Shukla V. , Bajpai M. , Habib F. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeEpoxy curing agents are used to cure epoxy resins by reacting with the epoxide groups or by promoting self‐polymerisation of the epoxy by catalytic action. Application characteristics and final physical properties can be tailored by the choice of curing agent. The purpose of this study was to reduce the cost of epoxy hardeners (polyamide and Mannich base, which are commercially available) without affecting the properties of epoxy system and which are also useable as low temperature curing in flooring.Design/methodology/approachTo prepare cost effecting Mannich base curatives for low temperature working environment without significantly affecting the properties such as toughening, adhesion, chemical resistance, etc. various compositions were made by incorporating liquid epoxy resin.FindingsMannich base curatives were prepared by using different amounts of phenol/bisphenol‐A, formaldehyde and polyamines to obtain products having different amine value, viscosity and colour. Liquid epoxy resin was cured by these Mannich base hardeners prepared. Drying time of relevant thin films was observed. These curatives showed excellent curing property at low temperature as well high humid conditions.Research limitations/implicationsMannich base curatives, used in present work was synthesised from phenol, DETA and dimethylamino propylamine. Besides, it could be synthesised from other phenol derivative such as cresol, resorcinol and cardanol. In the same manner, we can use other polyamines such as ethylenediamine.Practical implicationsThe method provided a simple and practical solution to reducing the cost of Mannich base hardener without significantly affecting the desired properties.Originality/valueThe method used to prepare Mannich‐based hardener was cost affective and could find numerous applications in protective coatings.
Teen perceptions of disclosure in buzz marketing
Authors: Ahuja Roshan D. , Anne Michels Tara , Mazzei Walker Mary , Weissbuch Mike 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis study aims to investigate teenagers'perceptions about buzz marketing and the issue of disclosure.Design/methodology/approachA structured focus group methodology was used in the study.FindingsThe paper finds that teenagers like being buzz agents, they view this role as a job, they usually conceal the fact that they are buzz agents, and they generally see no ethical dilemma in not revealing their status.Practical implicationsIt is important to establish a relationship that encourages honesty and transparency in the marketing exchange process when teens are used as buzz agents.Originality/valueThe paper provides useful information on the marketing exchange process when teens are used as buzz agents.
South Africa poised to become a loyalty marketing gem
Authors: Olivier Deon 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the emergence of South Africa as a potential growth market for loyalty marketing strategies. A developing black middle class represents an under‐served market that presents significant opportunities for marketers and entrepreneurs.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes South Africa's emerging black middle class as a market poised for loyalty growth, based on up to 15 million currently registered loyalty members across a host of programs. Challenges include some deficiencies in technology. Opportunities include prevalent use of mobile telephony and economic growth.FindingsThe study suggests that the historically ignored black middle class can double its consumer spending power in short time and drive South African economic growth. The change in status quo presents significant opportunities for loyalty marketers who are still in the discussion stages of recognizing the new potential.Practical implicationsLoyalty marketers who are willing to accept the challenge of developing solutions for South Africa's emerging black middle class stand to reap rewards in a period of five to ten years.Originality/valueThe paper takes a look at loyalty marketing prospects in South Africa and suggests that marketers develop solutions for the relatively untapped, but emerging, black middle class sector of the economy.
Defining a digital library
Authors: Seadle Michael , Greifeneder Elke 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis editorial seeks to examine the definition of a “digital library” to see whether one can be constructed that usefully distinguishes a digital library from other types of electronic resources.Design/methodology/approachThe primary methodology compares definitions from multiple settings, including formal institutional settings, working definitions from articles, and a synthesis created in a seminar at Humboldt University in Berlin.FindingsAt this point, digital libraries are evolving too fast for any lasting definition. Definitions that users readily understand are too broad and imprecise, and definitions with more technical precision quickly grow too obscure for common use.Originality/valueA functional definition of a digital library would add clarity to a burgeoning field, especially when trying to evaluate a resource. The student perspective provides a fresh look at the problem.
Being a librarian: metadata and metadata specialists in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Calhoun Karen 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to forecast the changing roles of librarians – especially catalogers and metadata specialists – in today's technology‐driven research, teaching, and learning environments, in which information seekers behave more and more self‐sufficiently and move well beyond library collections in their pursuit of information.Design/methodology/approachPlaces the roles of librarians and library collections in the larger context of knowledge management and campus information network processes, which occur in every knowledge community, with or without a library. Explores and provides examples of how knowledge creators can collaborate with information technology experts and librarians to transform how faculty members teach and conduct research; how students learn; and how libraries support these activities.FindingsLibrarians need to make their collections and services much more visible through human and technological interconnections and greatly improved delivery of information content. Metadata and metadata specialists are strategic assets for libraries, but the service model for cataloging faces critical challenges. Two tables list these challenges and the implications for metadata specialists.Originality/valueOffers new observations and insights into how librarians can continue to contribute to saving information seekers' time and advancing the state of knowledge in the increasingly interconnected world of the web. Drawing from the larger context of the global infosphere, information‐seeking behavior, and changing roles for library collections and information systems, forecasts the role of metadata and metadata specialists in libraries.