bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and characterisation of nano‐alumina hybrid polyimide films
Authors: Zhou H.R. , Liu X.G. , Zhao D.M. , Lin F. , Fan Y. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to synthesise and characterise nano‐alumina hybrid polyimide (PI) films.Design/methodology/approachPI nano‐composite films containing definitive contents of Al2O3 were prepared by the sol‐gel process of aluminum isopropoxide in the N, N′‐dimethylacetamide solution of polyamide acid. The films were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscope, atomic forced microscope, and X‐ray fluorescent spectroscope (XRF). The thermal stability of the composite films was tested by TG.FindingsPI nano‐Al2O3 films were prepared by the sol‐gel method. The XRF is an effective way to detect the inorganic phase of the composite films and measure the content of nano‐Al2O3.Research limitations/implicationsThere are seldom reports about the PI composites containing Al2O3 through sol‐gel process.Practical implicationsPI has been widely used in the fields of aviation micro‐electron and less costly dyes.Originality/valueImproved electricity insulation property of the PI films. Al2O3 particles were distributed homogeneously in the PI in nano‐scale by means of sol‐gel process.
Studies of the anti‐corrosive effect of Raphia hookeri exudate gum‐halide mixtures for aluminium corrosion in acidic medium
Authors: Umoren S.A. , Ebenso E.E. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of Raphia hookeri exudate gum and halide ions on the corrosion inhibition of aluminium in HCl solutions at 30‐60°C and to study the mechanism of action.Design/methodology/approachThe corrosion rates were determined using the gravimetric (weight loss), gasometric (hydrogen evolution) and thermometric techniques. The results obtained in the absence and presence of Raphia hookeri, halides and Raphia hookeri – halides combination were used to calculate the inhibition efficiency (%I), degree of surface coverage and to propose the mechanism of inhibition and type of adsorption.FindingsResults obtained showed that the Raphia hookeri exudates gum acted as an inhibitor for aluminium corrosion in acidic environment. Inhibition efficiency (%I) increased with increase in concentration of the Raphia hookeri exudates gum and synergistically increased to a considerable extent on the addition of halide ions. The increase in inhibition efficiency (%I) and surface coverage (θ) in the presence of the halides was found to be in the order I− > Br− > Cl− which indicates that the radii as well as electronegativity of the halide ions play a significant role in the adsorption process. Raphia hookeri exudates gum obeys Freundlich, Langmuir and Temkin adsorption isotherms. Phenomenon of physical adsorption is proposed from the values of kinetic/thermodynamic parameters obtained. The values of synergism parameter (SI) obtained for the halides are greater than unity suggesting that the enhanced inhibition efficiency of the Raphia hookeri caused by the addition of the halide ions is only due to synergistic effect.Research limitations/implicationsElectrochemical studies such as polarization and AC impedance spectra will throw more light on the mechanistic aspects of the corrosion inhibition and more exudate gums need to be evaluated as corrosion inhibitors.Practical implicationsRaphia hookeri exudate gum can be used as corrosion inhibitor and the addition of halides to it improves the inhibition efficiency considerably.Originality/valueThis paper provides new information on the use of exudate gums as corrosion inhibitors and addition of halides in acidic medium. This environmentally friendly inhibitor could find possible applications in metal surface anodizing and surface coatings.
News in a Time of Blogs
Authors: Seadle Michael 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis guest editorial aims to discuss the relationship between Library Hi Tech and Library Hi Tech News.Design/methodology/approachThe editorial looks at how the News distinguishes itself in a time of instant publication via blogs.FindingsThe News offers a wealth of important and often overlooked topics, including ones such as the technology interests of library leaders, avoiding the worst from filtering software, and privacy issues with server‐based editing software such as Google Documents.Originality/valueThe editorial offers topics on which others could and should write.
International Conference on Dublin Core and Metadata Applications (DC‐2008) in Berlin
Authors: Baker Thomas 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe International Conference on Dublin Core and Metadata Applications (DC‐2008) is being held this year in Berlin. The purpose of this paper is to describe the evolution of the Dublin Core effort from an initial focus on “core” elements for resource description towards a more comprehensive framework for developing application profiles that use multiple vocabularies on basis of the W3C resource description framework (RDF) model.Design/methodology/approachA Dublin Core application profile describes a metadata application, from functional requirements, via a domain model of entities to be described, to the formal specification of constraints on the basis of the DCMI Abstract Model.FindingsDublin Core application profiles are designed to be interoperable on the basis of W3C's RDF model and principles of Web architecture, such as consistent use of URIs, in order to facilitate the integration of metadata from multiple sources – a common requirement in today's Web.Originality/valueThe paper offers insights into the evolution of the Dublin Core.
VALA Conference 2008
Authors: McLean Michelle 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report on papers presented at the biannual VALA Conference, held in Melbourne, 5‐7 February 2008.Design/methodology/approachConference reportFindingsRepositories and Web 2.0 tools in particular are finding an important place in libraries. It is up to libraries to ensure their use is to the end benefit of users.Originality/valueLibraries have a key role to play in preserving the past as well as collaborating into the future, in both physical and virtual spaces.
Using volume flexible strategies to improve customer satisfaction and performance in health care services
Authors: Powers Thomas L. , Jack Eric P. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeResponding to demand fluctuations is a difficult problem in the marketing of services. This problem is particularly difficult in the delivery of health care, as it requires a complex network of facilities, equipment and trained personnel. This paper aims to examine how health care organizations are deploying volume flexible strategies in response to these changing demand patterns.Design/methodology/approachThis research used interviews with hospital administrators and a survey of administrators at academic medical centers in the USA to identify the use of internal and external volume flexible strategies, their impact on the creation of volume flexible capability, and their impact on performance outcomes.FindingsThe results show that there is a positive relationship between the use of internal volume flexible strategies, volume flexible capability, patient satisfaction, and organizational performance.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the measures used in this study were adequate for this exploratory research study, they require further development to improve their reliability as well as to capture additional dimensions of the constructs examined.Practical implicationsThe results validate the impact of these strategies and indicate that internal volume flexible strategies are positively related to patient satisfaction and organizational performance.Originality/valueAlthough health care organizations have implemented these strategies, little is known about their use or the impact that they have on satisfaction and performance – this work addresses this gap.
The customer socialization paradox: the mixed effects of communicating customer role expectations
Authors: Evans Kenneth R. , Stan Simona , Murray Lynn 
Published: May 2008

PurposeIncreasingly companies ask customers to participate in creating and producing services. This research aims to explore the effect that communicating role expectations to customers may have on their processing and evaluation of the encounter.Design/methodology/approachA dyadic experiment using prototypical customer‐couples and practicing insurance agents was implemented. Couples and agents were randomly assigned to dyads, which were then assigned to one of two conditions – a no‐expectations or an expectations condition. Post‐encounter, couples evaluated service quality and indicated their satisfaction, trust and anticipation of future interaction.FindingsThe study found that socialized customers relied more on service quality in evaluating the encounter than did unsocialized customers. However, socialized wives showed decreased trust, satisfaction and anticipation of future interaction than did non‐socialized wives (no significant differences for husbands).Research limitations/implicationsExpectations were simply provided to customers; and these expectations were framed to emphasize the benefits of complying with expectations may mitigate some negative effects of socialization.Practical implicationsWhile socialized customer outcomes declined, these customers relied more on the service quality elements of the encounter rather than peripheral elements beyond the control of the firm and the service provider. These findings highlight the caution managers must exercise as they juggle the trade‐offs inherent in communicating the customer's expanded role in the service production.Originality/valueThe customer's role in creating and producing service experiences has received increased attention. This research offers evidence that the benefits achieved through increased customer participation have costs to be considered.
Personal development planning under the scope of self‐brand orientation
Authors: Rigopoulou Irini , Kehagias John 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to the empirical body of knowledge regarding the role of universities today. In addition, it aims to investigate the topic of personal development planning (PDP) programs, under a different perspective borrowed from marketing theory, namely, the “self‐brand orientation” approach.Design/methodology/approachThe study focused on investigating the core research topics and parameters perceived to be important to students. The theoretical perspectives of PDPs and brand orientation served as conceptual bases, and both have been operationalised through the empirical study conducted.FindingsThe study findings reveal a “gap” between today's student needs and what the universities offer. “self‐brand oriented” management, seems to support the development of PDPs in a promising way, since the majority of the students claim that they are willing to participate in such a program.Research limitations/implicationsBecause of sample limitations, the findings of the study are not generally applicable. Besides, the topics of PDPs remain unknown to the particular students, since they never had the opportunity to participate in such a program in the past.Practical implicationsThis paper can be seen as a guiding work to new means of delivery of PDPs. It contributes to the dialogue under progress regarding the role of the Universities today and the ways by which PDPs will increase their future possibilities.Originality/valueThe contribution of the paper is twofold: it meets students' needs as well as society's requests and allows marketing to make an ethical contribution to higher education.
Glass ceilings, glass cliffs or new worlds?
Authors: Broadbent Jane , Kirkham Linda 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to set out some contextual issues in relation to the achievements of women accountants and academics.Design/methodology/approachThis is a discussion paper that uses academic and professional experiences as a basis from which to draw out an agenda for further study.FindingsIt is found that, despite changes over the last 30 years, the lived experience of women in accounting and academia is evidence that their academic and professional opportunities are still constrained. Two papers in this special issue offer feminist approaches to enrich study in the area, and it is argued that gender is an element that should be embedded in research in accounting.Research limitations/implicationsThis editorial is a selective review and is not intended as a comprehensive review of research in the field.Practical implicationsThe paper seeks to re‐ignite more research in the field, using a richer range of approaches.Originality/valueThe paper sets an agenda for research and provides an argument as to why the agenda needs to be pursued.
Towards the feminization of accounting practice
Authors: Komori Naoko 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to open up the Anglo‐centred argument in gender and accounting by exploring the relationship of women and accounting in a different social and cultural context.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on in‐depth ethnographical studies to explore the real‐ life experiences of 66 Japanese women (9 percent of all women CPAs) who have entered the accounting profession from a range of backgrounds and generations.FindingsThe paper finds that some women accounting professionals in Japan have brought about changes in accounting practice there by applying a uniquely feminine approach in their day‐to‐day work. Their strict approach is attuned to the ongoing globalization in the field of accountancy, and this has helped to widen the opportunities for women.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper demonstrates that, in order to understand the issues surrounding gender and accounting, it is important to consider the prevailing social context and its underpinnings. In the Japanese “interdependent” social context, gender is intertwined in the process of accounting to establish its “independent” status.Practical implicationsIt has been argued that the unique social and cultural context in Japan will make it difficult for the country to converge its accounting and auditing with global standards. By incorporating a gender perspective, the paper aims to clarify the social assumptions under which accounting and auditing operate in Japan.Originality/valueBy making a close analysis of the process by which Japanese women have entered the accounting profession, the paper reveals the connection between the growing significance of auditing and the changing role and position of women.
Accounting histories of women: beyond recovery?
Authors: Walker Stephen P. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper aims to make an assessment of the contribution made by accounting histories of women produced since 1992 and the current state of knowledge production in this subject area.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a review of published sources on accounting history and women's, gender and feminist history.FindingsWhereas feminist historians and historians of gender boast substantial advances in research and transformative impacts on the wider discipline of history, similar momentum is less evident in accounting history. It is argued that over the past 15 years scholarship has remained substantially in the “recovery” phase, has not “defamiliarized” the sub‐field and is yet to engage with developments in feminist and gender historiography which offer regenerative potential.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper argues that sex and gender differentiation persist in both the past and the present and their study should feature large on the accounting history research agenda.Originality/valueCore themes in feminist and gender history are explored with a view to identifying research questions for accounting historians. These themes include the oppression and subordination of women, the public‐private divide, restoring women to history, devising new periodisations, investigating socio‐cultural relations, and the construction of identities.
Strategic management and accounting processes: acknowledging gender
Authors: Parker Lee D. 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThis paper sets out to investigate and critique the corpus of recent research into gender dimensions of strategic management and accounting processes with a view to establishing the current state of knowledge and offering both future research and policy implications.Design/methodology/approachA literature‐based analysis and critique are employed. This is constructed from a social constructionist perspective, drawing on concepts of the variably gendered identity of discourse and of process, and a theory of absence.FindingsThe study uncovers major gaps in research attention and consequent knowledge concerning gendered characteristics of managers' and accountants' approaches to, and involvement in, strategic management and accounting processes. Evidence suggests that in these processes both feminine and masculine features constitute important but at present inadequately researched and understood modes of operation.Research limitations/implicationsThis research suggests opportunities for androgynous strategic management and accounting processes that draw on characteristics from both feminine and masculine perspectives. Also identified are a significant array of knowledge absences and related further research questions to be addressed.Originality/valueThe study opens up an area of significant research neglect, particularly in accounting. It offers theoretical and methodological paths for moving this research agenda forward.
Company practices of Cypriot firms
Authors: Droussiotis Annabel , Austin Jill 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this exploratory study is to learn about and better understand Cypriot employees' and managers'/employers' perceptions of several variables related to organization behavior using Robbins model.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data are collected from a questionnaire using closed‐ended questions. Data analysis methods include frequency distributions, and cross tabulations.FindingsResults indicate that employees and employers have some different perceptions for individual level variables, group level variables, and organization/systems level variables. Three out of the 12 organization/systems level variables were significant at 0.001 level, one out of the three group level variables were significant at the same level, while two out of eight individual level variables were significant at the same level.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited to Cypriot managers/employers and employees.Practical implicationsThese results provide some information that is useful to managers/employers in Cyprus as they work to understand the individual, group, and organization variables of organization behavior and become more effective.Originality/valueThis is the first study attempting to compare manager/employer and employee perceptual differences regarding their work environment in Cyprus, using the contingency organization behavior model.
International standards of business conduct: framework and illustration
Authors: Svensson Göran , Wood Greg 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the insights and a proposal into the structure of standards of business conduct and its intended applications.Design/methodology/approachThe case study is based upon an inductive content analysis of corporate ethics artefacts.FindingsIt is concluded that the standards of business conduct may be highly prescriptive in world wide corporations, but that there should be an explicit commitment to a flexible and dynamic approach to the application of standards of business conduct.Research limitations/implicationsAn examination of the actual behaviour of a corporation's operations was beyond the scope of the present research, but such a study has potential for future research. This would open up the wider question of how corporations can minimise the gap between corporate intentions and actual outcomes in business operations across national and cultural boundaries.Practical implicationsThese diverse national and cultural contexts that world wide corporations encounter must be taken into consideration in the content of their standards of business conduct.Originality/valueThe authors emphasise the concern of recognising that the contexts surrounding standards of business conduct are dynamic. Corporate codes of ethics should be regarded as dynamic artefacts. A framework of application is proposed.
Developing operational understanding of service quality through a simulation environment
Authors: Oliva Rogelio , Bean Michael 
Published: May 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to articulate the challenges of learning and improving in service delivery systems – that present managers with imperfect information, confounded variables, and tightly coupled interactions between operational and psychological factors – and present a simulator to assist managers to overcome these challenges.Design/methodology/approachAfter reviewing the literature on “learning from simulations” and the main challenges of learning in a service environment, the paper presents the assumptions underlying the service quality management simulator, its interface, and protocols to use it that have proven effective.FindingsIt is possible to assist managers to develop operational understanding – what to do, when and how much of it to do – about the drivers of service quality using a simulation environment.Research limitations/implicationsIn its present form, the simulator only takes a functional definition of service quality and captures the relationships in a business‐to‐consumer service environment. These shortcomings suggest future expansions to the theory. Also, while anecdotal evidence is reported of the benefits using the simulator, quantifying these benefits remains a challenge for future research.Practical implicationsThe ability to customize the simulator's parameters to represent specific service settings makes it a powerful tool for operating managers facing some of the challenges described by the theory.Originality/valueThis paper documents, in a non‐technical way, the elements a set of relationships that has been shown to confuse managers and cause erosion of service quality and describes the simulator's uses and benefits in a pedagogical environment.