bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reduced sampling for construction of quadratic response surface approximations using adaptive experimental design
Authors: Pérez Victor M. , Renaud John E. , Watson Layne T. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeTo reduce the computational complexity per step from O(n2) to O(n) for optimization based on quadratic surrogates, where n is the number of design variables.Design/methodology/approachApplying nonlinear optimization strategies directly to complex multidisciplinary systems can be prohibitively expensive when the complexity of the simulation codes is large. Increasingly, response surface approximations (RSAs), and specifically quadratic approximations, are being integrated with nonlinear optimizers in order to reduce the CPU time required for the optimization of complex multidisciplinary systems. For evaluation by the optimizer, RSAs provide a computationally inexpensive lower fidelity representation of the system performance. The curse of dimensionality is a major drawback in the implementation of these approximations as the amount of required data grows quadratically with the number n of design variables in the problem. In this paper a novel technique to reduce the magnitude of the sampling from O(n2) to O(n) is presented.FindingsThe technique uses prior information to approximate the eigenvectors of the Hessian matrix of the RSA and only requires the eigenvalues to be computed by response surface techniques. The technique is implemented in a sequential approximate optimization algorithm and applied to engineering problems of variable size and characteristics. Results demonstrate that a reduction in the data required per step from O(n2) to O(n) points can be accomplished without significantly compromising the performance of the optimization algorithm.Originality/valueA reduction in the time (number of system analyses) required per step from O(n2) to O(n) is significant, even more so as n increases. The novelty lies in how only O(n) system analyses can be used to approximate a Hessian matrix whose estimation normally requires O(n2) system analyses.
The influence of marketing capabilities on economic international performance
Authors: Blesa Andreu , Ripollés Maria 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe paper's objective is to demonstrate that marketing capabilities have positive effects on firms' international performance. These effects may be both direct and indirect. Marketing capabilities foster international commitment and influence the choice of international entry mode. Through these, marketing capabilities exercise an indirect influence on international performance.Design/methodology/approachFirst, based on arguments from the dynamic capabilities perspective, the dynamic theory of strategy and the transaction‐cost theory, the effects of marketing capabilities on international performance are discussed. A survey was carried out on Spanish and Belgian international firms to test the model. SEM was used to analyse the relationships established in the hypotheses.FindingsThe results show coincidences between the samples in relation to the positive influences of companies' marketing capabilities on economic international performance, international commitment and international entry modes. Moreover, there is also a positive and significant influence of high direct investment entry modes on international economic performance. However, there are differences in other relationships.Practical implicationsThe results inform on the kind of entry modes that can be selected, based on firm marketing capabilities, and which of them provide better international results.Originality/valueThis paper confirms that marketing capabilities are at the core of the company's international decisions. Specifically, it demonstrates that marketing capabilities influence both the international commitment of the company and the selection of the appropriate international mode of entry.
LibQUAL+™ in a consortium: KLN's challenges and considerations
Authors: Garthwait Clayton , Richardson Elizabeth A. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share the experience of using the LibQUAL+™ library assessment suite in a statewide library consortium.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides anecdotal information about one consortium's experience implementing the LibQUAL+™ survey. It provides a description of the survey and a narrative of the Keystone Library Network's experience, and includes other information from published literature regarding the survey's implementation in other libraries and library consortia when relevant.FindingsImplementing a library service quality survey as a consortium has benefits, but also provides challenges. Consortium‐wide planning, training, coordination, survey promotion, and intra‐consortium communication are important.Practical implicationsConsortia considering performing a library assessment will want to consider the challenges and considerations mentioned.Originality/valueThis paper provides information about, and suggestions for, implementing the survey in a consortium, differing from the existing body of literature that tends to focus on the instrument itself or on interpreting outcomes.
New roles for an academic library: current measurements
Authors: Opperman Bill V. , Jamison Martin 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to detail the experience of a rising gate count at a departmental science and engineering library while many traditional user statistics show the now familiar decline.Design/methodology/approachLibrary and material‐use statistics gathered continuously over an eight‐year period along with data from a user exit survey describe the many changes in the patterns of use at academic libraries.FindingsData confirm that the in‐house use of print material will continue to decline in the face of rising gate counts. Discussion identifies probable causes of the continued rise in gate count.Research limitations/implicationsA description of the environment and causes for findings are available for future comparisons.Practical implicationsAnecdotal and informal observations were confirmed with the analysis of data. Taken together, these two forms of reporting support timely management decision making.Originality/valueThe paper provides baseline data for librarians evaluating “library as place” innovations.
Cultural collisions and bridging the gap between “don't stare” and care
Authors: Kanafani Elturk Ghada 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to emphasize and provide some insights into the changes occurring in the library field, focusing on the need to become multi‐culturally competent to address these changes and in helping to bridge gaps between diverse communities.Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates various learning, teaching and communicating styles among cultures. It focuses on using the human experience in general to highlight and bring to the forefront the similarities that humans share rather than what drives them apart.FindingsMany libraries, grassroots and more established organizations are struggling to achieve common ground and inclusiveness as a sustainable institutionalized work environment. Libraries, by nature, can play a leading role in these steps towards progress.Research limitations/implicationsThe nature of the topic and the fact that it is unproductive to treat new views and social changes with old styles of thinking, approaches and solutions, results in difficulties when conformity to style or research methods is mandatory. Trying to box the human experience in scientific or quantified measures negate change and inclusion.Originality/valueThis paper suggests ways by which libraries and other organizations, in multicultural societies, can adapt their view points, work styles, by being open to change and valuing and respecting the different in order to devise new institutionalized measures that encompass all view points and values.
Dealing with death of an employee
Authors: Topper Elisa F. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe death of a staff member can have an effect on all members of the library team. The purpose of the paper is to suggest how a supervisor should deal with the situation.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides real life scenarios based on the author's experiences.FindingsThe paper suggests ways on how to cope with the death of an employee.Originality/valueNo one expects to deal with the death of an employee but one should know how to deal with it should it occur.
The influence of modified VER on PU/VER IPN
Authors: Qin Chuanli , Zheng Jin , Haijian Jiang , Qiang Tan , Xuduo Bai 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to develop a method to block hydroxyl groups of epoxy acrylate (AAEP) in vinyl ester resin (VER) and to study the influence of modified VER on polyurethane/(VER) interpenetrating polymer network (PU/VER IPN).Design/methodology/approachThe hydroxyl groups of AAEP in VER were blocked via different methods. Infra‐red spectroscopy was adopted to study the influence of the reagents, reaction temperature and feed molar ratio on the blocking effect of hydroxyl groups and the optimised technological parameters were determined. The PU/VER IPN and PU/modified VER IPN were prepared by simultaneous interpenetrating of VER (mixture of AAEP and butyl methacrylate with the mass ratio of 2/1) or modified VER and synthesised PU in their laboratory. The microstructure, dynamic mechanical properties and mechanical properties of PU/VER IPN and PU/modified VER IPN were compared.FindingsThe results showed that compared to unmodified IPN, because the hydroxyl groups in VER were blocked and no chemical cross‐linked structure existed between the two networks, the modified IPN showed dual‐continuous microsturcture with larger phase domain sizes between 20 and 50 nm. The effect damping temperature range of modified IPN was broadened and its damping performance was improved. The mechanical strength of modified IPNs decreased and their break elongation increased evidently.Practical implicationsThe PU/modified VER IPN with excellent damping properties can be used in the applications where reduction of vibration and noise is desired.Originality/valueThe PU/modified VER IPN, in which no chemical cross‐linked structure existed between the two networks, was novel and its damping performance was improved and excellent.
Application of various solvent‐type alkyd resins to pine and cedar woods for achieving water repellence
Authors: Sahin H.T. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe objective of this study is to evaluate the water repellent efficiency of some oil modified solvent‐type alkyd resins, as wood protective formulations (WPs). It was done by surface treating of pine and cedar woods with the five leading brand of alkyd resins that are available in Turkey.Design/methodology/approachFor effective water repellency, various formulations were made by incorporating different concentrations of varnish resin, pigment, solvent, and a substance that repels water. The impact and adhesive strengths of the five different solvent‐type alkyd resins were characterised by using a very simple experimental design.FindingsThe swelling variations of unmodified pine and cedar woods were determined in water. Next, the water repellent efficiency of the five different alkyd resin formulations was evaluated. The modification of pine and cedar woods using alkyd resins showed various level enhancement of resistance against water over the unmodified samples. The modification caused a chemical linkage between surface and resin that led to ensuring the intrinsically chemical bonds across the wood/resin matrix interface, which was the main cause to the improved water resistance. However, some WPs were less compatible, hence, had less bonding potential to both woods.Practical implicationsThe method developed provided a simple and practical solution to selecting WPs (brands) for pine and cedar woods.Originality/valueThe method for evaluating adhesive strengths of the five different brand solvent‐type alkyd resins to pine and cedar woods were novel and could find numerous applications in surface coating.
Mechanical properties of 3‐D glass/polyester resin cellular woven composite under impact loading
Authors: Tang Y. , Sun B. , Ding X. , Gu B. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to investigate transverse impact behaviour and energy absorption of 3‐D glass/polyester resin cellular woven composite impacted by flat‐ended rod and to discuss the failure modes of the composite under quasi‐static and dynamic loading.Design/methodology/approachThe quasi‐static compression tests were conducted with MTS 810.23 tester. The impact behaviours of the 3‐D cellular woven composite were tested with a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus.FindingsFailure loads and energy absorption capacities of the 3‐D cellular woven composite increase as the increase of load speed, i.e. the composite is strain rate sensitive. The failure loads and energy absorptions in warp direction are lower than those in weft direction at the same loading speed because of the lower linear density of warp yarns. The damage morphologies of the 3‐D cellular woven composite manifest the compression failure in the front side and tension failure in rear side.Research limitations/implicationsThe influence of different structure parameters on the failure mode should be studied.Practical implicationsThe study provided information on the failure mode and energy absorption of the 3‐D cellular woven composite under impulsive loading. This could be used for light weight structure design, such as vehicle and aircraft stringer structures.Originality/valueUnderstanding energy absorption of the 3‐D cellular woven composite under transverse impact is much more important than those under quasi‐static loading. This paper provides the results of dynamic mechanical properties of a new kind of 3‐D cellular woven composite under impact loading.
e‐SCM: internet's impact on supply chain processes
Authors: Giménez Cristina , Lourenço Helena R. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the interaction of two topics: supply chain management (SCM) and the internet. Merging these two fields is a key area of concern for contemporary managers and researchers. They have realised that the internet can enhance SCM by making real time information available and enabling collaboration between trading partners.Design/methodology/approachA literature review in prestigious academic journals in Operations Management and Logistics has been conducted for the period 1995‐2005. The objective is to collect, organise and synthesise existing knowledge relating to SCM and the internet.FindingsThe paper describes the impact that the internet has on the different processes that SCM embrace. The literature review undertaken on the topic has shown that e‐SCM has been acknowledged as an outstanding topic in the supply chain literature in the most prestigious operations management and logistics journals, especially after year 2000. The main topics have been e‐procurement, e‐fulfilment and information flows.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is to define e‐SCM, to analyse how research in this area has evolved during the period 1995‐2005 and to identify some lines of further research.
A structural framework for closed‐loop supply chains
Authors: Wikner Joakim , Tang Ou 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe concept of the customer order decoupling point (CODP) has been used in many different contexts as an important structural concept for the traditional forward supply chain. The CODP is rarely explicitly applied in reverse supply chain management and the purpose of this paper is to show that the CODP can be an important corner stone of a framework for analysis of the closed‐loop supply chain containing both forward and reverse material flows.Design/methodology/approachConceptual similarities are identified using analogies between forward and reverse supply chains. First, the concepts are discussed in their original context of forward flows and thereafter the concepts are applied on reverse flows. Finally, a holistic closed‐loop model is established.FindingsThe conventional CODP framework for forward flow supply chains can be extended to cover also reverse material flows and therefore providing a foundation for a more comprehensive discussion of closed‐loop supply chains useful in both education, research, and industrial applications. Using the suggested extended framework it is possible to identify nine fundamental supply chain configurations.Practical implicationsDifferentiating between demand driven and forecast driven activities plays a critical role in practical supply chain management and this paper highlights that this approach also can be applied to closed‐loop supply chains and therefore extending the reach of the toolbox previously developed for the forward supply chain.Originality/valueThe concept CODP has not previously been comprehensively treated for the closed‐loop supply chain and this paper provides a foundation for establishing a strategic structural framework for discussing issues such as lean vs agile and balancing efficiency and responsiveness in a more comprehensive context involving also reverse material flows.
A unified model of supply chain agility: the work‐design perspective
Authors: Li Xun , Chung Chen , Goldsby Thomas J. , Holsapple Clyde W. 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical model of supply chain agility and, based on that, develop a research framework for investigating linkages between supply chain agility and firm competitiveness.Design/methodology/approachThe conceptual model of supply chain agility introduced here is based on an inter‐disciplinary literature review, which concentrates on peer‐reviewed journal papers on agility published within the period 1990‐2007. Among a total of 583 papers, representative studies are chosen and analyzed to identify key elements of supply chain agility, and to point out issues that have yet to be addressed.FindingsHe was found that even though there has been considerable research on the topic of agility, in general, there is relatively little examination of agility in the supply chain context. These few studies are not unified in their conceptualizations of agility and tend to adopt fairly limited views of supply chain dimensionality. This situation suggests that there is a need for a theory‐driven, unified model of agility in supply chains.Originality/valueThis paper fulfills an identified need for a comprehensive conceptual model of supply chain agility. Built from a work‐design perspective, this new conceptualization of supply chain agility offers a theoretical platform for guiding future research and practice concerned with achieving supply chain agility.
“Empirical characteristics” and “geocentricity” in “top” journals of logistics management
Authors: Svensson Göran , Tronvoll Bård , Slåtten Terje 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe selected journals in logistics management in terms of: the proportion of different “empirical” contributions; the proportion of national versus international research data; the geographical origin of research data; and the authors' geographical affiliations.Design/methodology/approachA sample of “top” scholarly journals in logistics management is selected on the basis of previous research, expert opinion and journal ranking lists. The selection includes the International Journal of Logistics Management (IJLM), the International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management (IJPDLM), and the Journal of Business Logistics (JBL). The research considers all available papers (a total of 657) published in these journals over an eight‐year period from 2000 to 2007.FindingsThe “empirical characteristics” and “geocentricity” were found to be variable across the studied journals in logistics management.Research limitations/implicationsThe present research is limited to the “empirical characteristics” and “geocentricity” of “top” journals in logistics management. It provides opportunity for further research.Practical implicationsThe present research provides valuable insights into the nature of academic publishing in the area of top journals of logistics management. The findings presented may be used by authors to direct their submissions to the proper journal.Originality/valueScholars will benefit from insights into the “empirical characteristics” and “geocentricity” of the “top” journals in logistics management. Specifically, scholars can note the particular features of individual journals. Further studies of the “empirical characteristics” and “geocentricity” of individual research journals are required in other related journals to the field of logistics management.
Impact of ICTs on user‐provider relations: perspectives from UK local authorities
Authors: Senyucel Zorlu 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of understanding the mutually constitutive relationships between the provider (suppliers of information communication technologies (ICTs)) and user (service departments of ICTs) groups in UK local authorities in order to see the changing work patterns of public sector employees during the modernization process.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews the literature on the use of the ICTs in local authorities, as well as related literature on user‐provider relationship. Empirical research is gathered from a survey of 22 UK local authorities and five in‐depth case studies.FindingsThe framework shows how the use of ICTs changes the way public sector employee's work, especially when dealing with the Modernization Agenda. The framework highlights that the use of technology alters the roles of user and provider groups, in particular, their sanctioning behaviour, use of resources and barriers they face in their work routines.Practical implicationsThe findings should be of value to policy makers who need to understand the changing work patterns in local authorities in order to plan new ways of public service delivery.Originality/valueThe paper illuminates the impact of the use of ICTs on the way different groups of employees work and interact with each other everyday during the time of public sector reform in UK local authorities.
How to measure the “value” in value chains
Authors: Barber Elizabeth 
Published: November 2008

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to broaden the performance measurements of total supply chain performance.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual model is presented based on the balanced scorecard. The new model formulates a model for the tangible aspects that measure the success of the total chain which is then extended to incorporate the intangible value adding aspects to measure total value chain success.FindingsA framework is presented showing the importance of intangible value adding aspects of the total value chain.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research may address in depth research associated with the five key intangible aspects given in the current model.Practical implicationsThe practical implementation of the required metrics in such a dynamic area as the supply chain industry needs to be focused on the aspects most required at particular times depending on the varying levels of market activities.Originality/valueThis paper provides a broader performance model than the balanced scorecard or any other framework currently used in the supply chain literature.