bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on tribological and corrosion inhibiting properties of thiadiazole derivative as lubricant grease additive
Authors: Hu Jian‐Qiang , Wei Xian‐Yong , Zong Zhi‐Min 
Published: October 2006

PurposePure 2,5‐dimercapto‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole (DMTD) disulfide dimer (DMS2) shows excellent four ball weld properties, however, the product is a solid material with relatively low initial seizure load and exhibits certain corrosion, which accelerate oxidation of the lubricant by catalytic effect on metals. The author make efforts to resolve problems said by design a novel thiadiazole complex.Design/methodology/approachThe complex of thiadiazole dimmer and polyglycol (DMS2‐GL) was synthesized as ashless grease additive. The antiwear and load carrying properties of the additive and their synergistic effects was evaluated by four ball tester in four types of lubricant grease. Moreover, corrosion inhibiting properties of compositions said was investigated by copper corrosion test.FindingsThe additive DMS2‐GL possessed good load carrying capacity, and exhibits good synergistic antiwear and load carrying prop with rust inhibitor. In addition, dates obtained from copper corrosion test show that it does not corrode copper but coats the metal with a film, and could improve the anticorrosion of corrosive additives molybdenum dialkyldithiophosphate (MoDDP) and molybdenum dibutyldithiocarbamate (MoDTC) by forming protective films on rubbing surface, which contribute to improving corrosion inhibiting property of greases. Finally, the tribo‐chemical mechanism was proposed that thiadiazole dimer and polyglycol could coordinate with each other by polydentate surface interaction, which means thiadiazole rings interact with the metal surface, polyglycol affords a bridging technology linked thiadiazole dimmers so as to lighten loads and strengthen forces between thiadiazole dimmer moleculars.Originality/valueThis paper provides a good ashless additive which has good antiwear, extreme pressure and corrosion inhibiting properties, and fulfils an identified resources need, which can offer practical help in industrial applications and to an individual starting out on an academic career.
Devolved HRM responsibilities, middle‐managers and role dissonance
Authors: McConville Teri 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to report a study into the role of middle line managers, in public services, in relation to devolved HRM. The paper notes that the intermediacy of middle management leads to a distinct and unique form of role tension. A model is offered to explain that phenomenon, which is exacerbated by HRM responsibilities, and emphasises the importance of middle line managers within organisations.Design/methododology/approachThe paper shows that focused, qualitative discussions complemented earlier research. The NHS, Armed Forces and Fire Service were investigated to inform and test an explanatory framework for the phenomenon that is here denoted as role dissonance.FindingsThe paper found that middle line managers want to be proactive in HRM and are taking ownership of HRM and are exceeding their job requirements to do so. However, while it can potentially enhance their role, HRM adds to what is already a substantial workload. Especially, middle managers need to mediate tensions between strategic planners. That unique function, formerly shared with personnel managers, exaggerates the middleness of their roles and is a source of strain for individuals.Practical implicationsThe model presented in this paper demonstrates how a range of cultural and structural factors impact on individual and organisational expectations and behaviours. The result is a role‐based phenomenon, which is a distinct feature of middle‐line management, and shows many similarities to cognitive dissonance.Originality/valueThe paper offers new concepts to explain a well‐reported phenomenon that has, so far, not been adequately elucidated.
On complex adaptive systems and agent‐based modelling for improving decision‐making in manufacturing and logistics settings
Authors: Nilsson Fredrik , Darley Vince 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to contribute to the tactical and operational decision making of manufacturing and logistics operations by providing novel insights into modelling and simulation, based on complex adaptive systems (CAS).Design/methodology/approachThe research approach is theoretically based on CAS with agent‐based modelling (ABM) as the implementation method. A case study is presented where an agent‐based model has contributed to increased understanding and precision in decision making at a packaging company in the UK.FindingsThe results suggest that ABM provides decision‐makers with robust and accurate “what‐if” scenarios of the dynamic interplay among several business functions. These scenarios can guide managers in the process of moving from policy space to performance space, i.e. concerning priorities of improvement efforts and choices of production/manufacturing policies, warehouse policies, customer service policies and logistics policies. Furthermore, it is found that ABM can include and pay attention to several aspects of CAS and thus provide understanding of, and explanation for, the patterns and effects which emerge in manufacturing and logistics settings.Practical implicationsAided by agent‐based models and simulations, practitioners' levels of intuition can be enhanced since patterns on the macro level emerge from agents' interactive behaviour. Together with insights from CAS these emergent patterns can be explained and understood, and are thus beneficial for the improvement of decision making in companies.Originality/valueThe case presented distinguishes this paper from what has been written in previous articles on the application of ABM, since such articles have not produced any empirically verified results after implementation of ABM.
Inventory: catalyst for collection development
Authors: Shouse Daniel L. , Teel Linda 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThe intent of this article is to show the direct outcomes of an inventory project, which served as the catalyst for collection development improvements.Design/methodology/approachAn inventory project was undertaken with a major emphasis on the outcomes derived from the inventory.FindingsSeveral types of problems were discovered, such as missing items, incorrect information (call numbers, collection codes, item types, etc. …), damaged materials, and weaknesses in the collection, which resulted in major improvements and changes in the development of the collection.Originality/valueThe results of the inventory project improved the accessibility of the collection to patrons by correcting many inconsistencies involving the shelving of materials, online records, call numbers, collection codes, item types, and bar codes. The location of missing items as well as identified areas of strengths and weaknesses assisted with collection development activities. The results of the project also provided an opportunity to hire a consulting firm to further assess the collection, which led to additional funds for supporting the collection. The single major benefit of the inventory process was that it provided the catalyst for instigating major changes in the curriculum collection development of the Teaching Resources Center.
The SwissInfoDesk experiment: the building of a website subject gateway as a contributive part of a virtual reference desk
Authors: Accart Jean‐Philippe 
Published: October 2006

PurposeVirtual Reference Desks are new online services developed by libraries and this paper aims to give the example of SwissInfoDesk, the VRD of the Swiss National Library set up in 2003. The main approach is a focus on how SwissInfoDesk is built, maintained and developed, considering users' interests with a proposed list of topics on Switzerland. The most significant differences between SwissInfoDesk and other VRDs are the multilingual aspects (four languages are represented) and the link between a directory of selected Swiss official websites and the reference desk itself. The user can search by himself or address his request to the desk. SwissInfoDesk illustrates the ongoing changes in reference work and the new dimension of communication between information specialists and information‐seekers.Design/methodology/approachAfter a short introduction on website subject gateways and virtual reference desk, the main approach is a focus on how SwissInfoDesk is built, maintained and developed, considering users' interests with a proposed list of topics on Switzerland.FindingsThe most significant differences between SwissInfoDesk and other VRDs are the multilingual aspects (four languages are represented) and the link between a directory of selected Swiss official websites and the reference desk itself.Originality/valueSwissInfoDesk illustrates the ongoing changes in reference work and the new dimension of communication between information specialists and information‐seekers. The projects to develop SwissInfoDesk in the future are given. The marketing policy is an important part of this development, joined to cooperation and partnership in Switzerland and in Europe.
Computer vision technology for agricultural robotics
Authors: Milella A. , Reina G. , Foglia M. 
Published: October 2006

PurposeAims at developing vision‐based algorithms to improve efficiency and quality in agricultural applications. Two case studies are analyzed dealing with the harvest of radicchio and the post‐harvest of fennel, respectively.Design/methodology/approachPresents two visual algorithms, which are called the radicchio visual localization (RVL) and fennel visual identification (FVI). The RVL serves as a detection system of radicchio plants in the field for a robotic harvester. The FVI provides information to an automated cutting device to remove the parts of fennel unfit for the market, i.e. root and leaves. Laboratory and field experiments are described to validate our approach and asses the performance of our visual modules.FindingsBoth the visual systems presented showed to be effective in experimental trials, computational efficient, accurate, and robust to noises and lighting variations. Computer vision could be successfully adopted in the intelligent and automated production of fresh market vegetables to improve quality and efficiency.Practical implicationsProvides guidance in the development of vision‐based algorithms for agricultural applications.Originality/valueDescribes visual algorithms based on intelligent morphological and color filters which lends themselves very well to agricultural applications and allow robustness and real‐time performance.
Vision based macadamia yield assessment
Authors: Dunn Mark , Billingsley John , Bell David 
Published: October 2006

PurposeTo describe the prototype macadamia nut yield monitor.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, the machine vision‐based yield monitor for macadamia nut plantations is described. A summary of sensor fusion procedures is presented. Additionally, a summary of current testing progress is provided.FindingsUsing vision to count nuts has the potential to revolutionise yield monitoring for the macadamia industry. Additionally, using a vision sensor for in‐field location can provide a low cost, highly accurate method of positioning. Tractor (and nut) location can be determined accurate to 12 mm.Practical implicationsThis project has culminated in the creation of a working prototype harvester. A commercial unit is in the design stage for operation in 2007 harvest season.Originality/valueThis paper describes the solution to a particular problem in the macadamia industry, with potential use in wider fields.
Gender‐based stereotypes in the workplace: the case of Greece
Authors: Mihail Dimitrios 
Published: October 2006

PurposeOrganizations need to address stereotypical bias in order to ensure that they do not underutilize any segment of the talent pool, and scarce managerial skills are effectively deployed. To this aim, research on gender stereotypes would provide valuable information to corporate leaders. Given the dearth of empirical research on this issue for the case of Greece, the current study was designed to explore the relationship between attitudes toward women as managers and gender‐based stereotypes.Design/methodology/approachA survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Participants in the survey were 173 full‐time employees working for firms across all the sectors of the economy.FindingsThe main findings indicate that the primary source of shaping respondents’ attitudes is their own gender. Other personal characteristics such as age, education, managerial experience, and working under a female supervisor seem not to have a measurable effect on employees’ stereotypic attitudes toward women in management. Furthermore, organizational characteristics such as the firm's nationality, ownership, sector, or department do not seem to provide any source of variance in employees’ attitudes.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research to extend the current investigation to employers and managers would allow for a more articulated discussion of the main sources of influence on stereotypical attitudes toward women in management.Originality/valueGiven the scarcity of empirical research on stereotyping and women's career prospects in Greece, this study contributes to debates in the wider academic community on the issue of analysing empirically stereotypic attitudes toward women as managers.
Towards an international debate on gender studies
Authors: Kuhlmann Ellen 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present information on gender studies and feminist approaches in Germany and cross‐national perspectives on the challenges and chances of changing science systems.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is report on an international conference in Germany “Re‐visioning the future. Perspectives in gender studies”. It discusses selected topics – race, class, gender and gender and professions – to highlight the need for and benefit of an international debate on gender studies.FindingsInternational and comparative research into gender expands the scope of gender studies both internationally and in one country.Originality/valueThe paper adds new geopolitical perspectives to a debate on gender studies and equal opportunities in academia that is shaped by Anglo American research.
The relationship between the trust, hope, and normative and continuance commitment of merger survivors
Authors: Ozag David 
Published: October 2006

PurposeTo determine the nature of the relationship between merger survivors' trust, hope, and normative and continuance commitment.Design/methodology/approachCorrelation and multiple regression studies.FindingsThe results indicate a statistically significant relationship between merger survivors' trust, hope, and normative commitment. The results of a correlation study indicate no significant relationship between merger survivors' trust, hope, and continuance commitment.Research limitations/implicationsOne limitation evolved from the scales used to measure the relationship between the study's constructs. The scales were not isolated to measure particular aspects of merger survivors' trust, hope, nor normative and continuance organizational commitment. Also, debate exists regarding the proper time to evaluate mergers survivors' perceptions regarding the merger.Practical implicationsTrust in management can reduce perceptions of threat and harm, and facilitate constructive, goal‐determined, survivor responses. Hope can enhance merger survivors' sense that they could cope with the merger. In turn, high levels of hope produced more active responses to the merger. Active and constructive survivor responses can produce positive commitment toward the organization. Conversely, a lack of trust in management can increase perceptions of threat and harm in merger survivors. The lack of trust in certain merger survivors can facilitate destructive responses, where the merger survivors' focus is on goals outside the organization.Originality/valueNo systematic attempts to understand the relationship among the constructs has been identified.
KM implementation in Malaysian telecommunication industry
Authors: Chin Wei Chong , Siong Choy Chong , Heng Ping Yeow Paul 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThis paper aims assess to the perceived importance (PI) and actual implementation (AI) of five preliminary knowledge management (KM) success factors, i.e. business strategy, organizational structure, knowledge team, knowledge audit, and knowledge map in the Malaysian telecommunication industry.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was conducted on telecommunication organizations located in the capital of Malaysia. Data were analyzed using indices and parametric statistics.FindingsThe results show that the organizations are aware of the importance of all the KM factors but fall short of implementation. The implemented factors consist of business strategy, organizational structure, and knowledge team. Knowledge audit and knowledge map are perceived as important but are the least implemented factors.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was conducted in only one industry in Malaysia. Furthermore, it focuses on the preliminary success factors of KM implementation rather than on learning and knowledge utilization.Practical implicationsTelecommunication organizations have to overcome resources problems and enhance implementation level in order to narrow the gaps for effective, full scale KM implementation in the later stage. Such viable practice will significantly help the industry not only to compete more effectively within Malaysia, but also to position itself as a global player in the world.Originality/valueThis study is perhaps one of the first to address the preliminary steps to be dealt with prior to KM implementation. Moreover, it attempts to compare the PI and AI of the five proposed success factors, which has received very little attention to date.
A contingency model to promote the effectiveness of expatriate training
Authors: Lee Li‐Yueh , Croker Robert 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the influences of expatriate characteristics, complexity of task assignment and perceived cross‐cultural differences on needs for expatriate training, and expatriate training effectiveness and to evaluate the influences of the fit between the expatriate's learning style and instructor's teaching modes on training effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachSurvey methodology was adopted to obtain data from the opinions of expatriates in foreign companies within Taiwan and China. Quantitative data were used to answer the research questions. A total of 400 foreign companies, with 200 in Taiwan and 200 in China, were selected as the survey sample. Hierarchical regression analyses were adopted to test the five research questions as developed in this study.FindingsThe study results revealed that expatriates' perceived needs for training were negatively influenced by competence and adaptability to work in the overseas assignment. Expatriates' perceived needs for expatriation training were also influenced by the complexity of the task assignment, capability of host country managers, and the perceived cross‐culture differences between the home country and host country. Furthermore, the levels of fit between expatriate learning preferences and the instructor's teaching methods did moderate the relationship between the need for expatriate training and the effectiveness of such training.Research limitations/implicationsFirst, since this study adopts cross‐sectional research design and examines the opinions of expatriates at one point in time, directional relationships may not be clear. It is recommended that future research conduct longitudinal studies to confirm the findings of this study. Second, due to the constraints of time and resources, the samples of this study are limited to expatriates working for foreign firms in Taiwan and in China. The generalization of the study results should thus be interpreted with appropriate caution. It is recommended that the same questionnaire, or an abbreviated form, could be used for expatriates in other countries, such as expatriates of multinational subsidiaries with US, Japanese, and European investment origins. Additional research will further confirm the validity and generalizability of the findings.Originality/valueThe training of expatriates has been recognized as one of the key elements for the success of business globalization. However, the evaluation of the effectiveness of training and development for overseas expatriates has remained largely unclear. The results of this study enabled one to understand how relevant contingency factors influence expatriate training needs and effectiveness. These findings could provide importance references for academics and practitioners when deciding on business practices.
The Baldrige Education Criteria for Performance Excellence Framework
Authors: Abdulla Badri Masood , Selim Hassan , Alshare Khaled , Grandon Elizabeth E. , Younis Hassan , Abdulla Mohammed 
Published: October 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to empirically test the causal relationships in the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) Education Performance Excellence Criteria.Design/methodology/approachUsing a sample of 220 respondents from 15 United Arab Emirates (UAE) universities and colleges, results of regression analysis and confirmatory structural equation modeling show that all of the hypothesized causal relationships in the Baldrige model are statistically significant.FindingsA comprehensive “measurement model” grounded in the Baldrige Performance Excellence in Education Criteria for the 33 items of measurement is developed, tested, and found to be valid and reliable. Leadership is identified as a driver for all components in the Baldrige System, including measurement, analysis and knowledge management, strategic planning, faculty and staff focus and process management. All Baldrige components (categories) are significantly linked with organizational outcomes as represented by the two categories of organizational performance results and student, stakeholder and market focus. The paper also tests the statistical fit of the only Baldrige model dealing with higher education, which was published in 1998 by Winn and Cameron.Research limitations/implicationsThe data obtained are based on a sample of UAE higher education institutions. Studies in other countries should be conducted using the developed model to ensure the reliability of the results obtained.Practical implicationsA greater understanding of the linkages between the elements making‐up the MBNQA Education Performance Excellence Criteria model, facilitating the guiding role that the award models play in the implementation of quality management in higher education.Originality/valueFor the first time, an instrument of the MBNQA Education Performance Excellence Criteria is developed and tested. A new in‐depth and holistic perspective for examining the relationships and linkages in the MBNQA Education Performance Excellence Criteria model is provided.