bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
3D magnetic field analysis of permanent magnet type of MRI using preconditioned MRTR method
Authors: Takahashi N. , Muraoka A. , Miyagi D. , Fujino S. , Miyata K. , Ohashi K. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe paper examines the convergence characteristics of the “minimized residual method based on the MRTR (three‐term recurrence formula of CG‐type) method” for solving large linear simultaneous equations.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses an example of magnetic field analysis of permanent magnet type of MRI taking account of the minor loop and eddy current.FindingsIt is shown that the preconditioned MRTR method can get a stable and quick convergence for such a relatively ill‐conditioned problem.Originality/valueIllustrates that the convergence of the Incomplete Cholesky Conjugate Gradient method is one of the important issues in the practical 3D magnetic field analysis.
Implementation of surface impedance boundary conditions in the cell method via the vector fitting technique
Authors: Alotto P. , De Cian A. , Molinari G. , Rossi M. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo show a possible implementation of surface impedance boundary conditions (SIBCs) in a time domain formulation based on the cell method (CM).Design/methodology/approachThe implementation is based on vector fitting (VF), a technique which allows a time domain representation of a rational approximation of the surface impedance to be found.FindingsIt is shown that very little computational effort is needed to find a very good VF approximation of simple SIBCs and that such approximation is easily fitted into existing CM codes.Research limitations/implicationsThe extension to higher order SIBCs has not been taken into account.Practical implicationsThe proposed approach avoids the use of convolution integrals, is accurate and easy to implement.Originality/valueThis paper introduces the use of VF for the approximate time domain representation of SIBCs.
An efficient parallel PCG method for eddy current analysis
Authors: Watanabe Kota , Igarashi Hajime 
Published: June 2007

PurposeIt is important to investigate large‐scale numerical analyses of electromagnetic fields in design processes of electromagnetic machines. Thus, faster solvers for eddy current analyses are necessary. Parallel computation methods for linear solvers in electromagnetic field analyses have been investigated. These methods have gained importance due to the diffusion of PC clusters and multi‐core CPUs in recent years.Design/methodology/approachThis paper discuses linear solvers for the finite element method in eddy current analyses on parallel computers. The preconditioned conjugate gradient method with overlapping domain decomposition is treated. Some techniques treated to improve the convergence was investigated.FindingsThe numerical results show that the overlapping effect results in good convergence in eddy current analyses.Originality/valueThe preconditioned conjugate gradient method with overlapping domain decomposition has been treated. The numerical results show that the overlapping method works more efficiently for eddy current analyses. Moreover, this method enables large‐scale analyses on popular computers such as PC clusters.
Transient calculation of the induced currents inside the brain during magnetic stimulation
Authors: Barchanski A. , Gjonaj E. , De Gersem H. , Weiland T. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTransient calculation of currents in brain tissue induced during a transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment.Design/methodology/approachBecause of the short pulses used in this technique a time‐harmonic approximation is no longer valid, and transient effects have to be considered. We have performed a Fourier analysis of the induced currents calculated in a high‐resolution model of the brain using the extended scalar potential finite differences (Ex‐SPFD) approach.FindingsThe peak induced currents in the transient development of the pulse are higher by a factor of approximately seven than the time harmonic solutions at the fundamental frequency. Furthermore, an analysis of the impact of the conductivity dispersion revealed an increase in the peak induced currents by 17.3 percent for white matter and by 20.8 percent for gray matter.Originality/valueUsing the numerically efficient Ex‐SPFD approach, along with a high performance cluster, the current densities inside the brain can be calculated incorporating more details than previous calculations of this type.
Unredeemed gift cards and the problem of not providing customers with value
Authors: Horne Dan 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how the “money for nothing” attitude about gift card non‐redemption, that pervades retailing, directly conflicts with a customer focus. Further, it aims to show how short‐term financial benefits are completely offset by long‐term increases in indirect costs and damage to brand equity.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses examples of behavior to demonstrate common attitudes of practitioners revolving around gift card issuing and redemption. Additionally, the use of simple case study brings into question the common assumptions about the short‐ and long‐term effect on organizational performance of non‐consumer‐centric policies.FindingsThe paper finds that claims that retailers get “money for nothing” on unredeemed gift cards are illusionary. The actual costs of non‐redemption are quite high because the retailer misses the opportunity to bring both existing and, importantly, new customers into the retail environment. Further, brand equity may suffer if consumers feel that retailers have taken advantage of them. Brand equity damage can grow exponentially if media and governmental interests step into the fray.Originality/valueThe real issue is whether retailers pay lip‐service to their gift card‐holding public or really embrace the potential value that a gift card‐holding customer generates. Long‐term benefits accrue to organizations that reject the “money for nothing” mentality and actively try to attract gift card shoppers.
A comparison of younger and older baby boomers: investigating the viability of cohort segmentation
Authors: Reisenwitz Timothy , Iyer Rajesh 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to examine the relationship between two age cohorts within the baby boomer group, younger baby boomers (born between 1956‐1965) and older baby boomers (born between 1946‐1955), based on various behavioral variables. It is postulated that, even though this group is exceedingly large in number, there are more similarities than differences among its younger and older members.Design/methodology/approachThe study sample was a convenience sample and consisted of 295 respondents who were in the 40‐58 age category. A questionnaire was administered with scales that were well established and that have been used in previous research.FindingsWith the exception of cognitive age, there were no significant differences between younger and older baby boomers regarding a large number of salient behavioral variables. This conclusion suggests that marketers use caution when applying the widely accepted age segmentation strategy of splitting baby boomers into younger and older boomers.Originality/valueThe results of this study caution the marketer in further dividing the baby boomers group based on cohort segmentation. The results of this study suggest that cohort segmentation is a viable beginning for dividing consumers into groups, but that other demographic and/or psychographic methods need to be considered in subsequent segmentation efforts for baby boomers.
Teleshopping adoption by Spanish consumers
Authors: Ruiz Mafé Carla , Sanz Blas Silvia 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse key drivers of teleshopping adoption.Design/methodology/approachThe impact of demographics, televiewing behaviour, non‐store shopping previous experience and attitude to teleshopping in present and future teleshopping decisions is analysed in the paper.FindingsData analysis shows that attitude towards teleshopping and teleshopping genre exposure are the main predictors of teleshopping behaviour, while consumer attitude towards teleshopping and previous experience as user of non‐store shopping channels (catalogue and television) are the most relevant factors influencing future teleshopping intention.Practical implicationsThis research enables companies to know the key drivers influencing teleshopping adoption and, therefore, what aspects to highlight in their marketing strategies. Companies that use television as a shopping channel must increase their presence on the television market and improve televiewers' opinion of the teleshopping system as it would allow televiewers to maintain a relation with the teleshopping genre and to increase their probability of purchase. The significant influence that non‐store previous experience exerts on willingness to teleshop shows managers that the complementary use of other non‐store shopping systems becomes a key tool to increase teleshopping in the future.Originality/valueDespite dramatic differences being discovered between non‐store shoppers, very limited research has been conducted to examine them. There are still not enough studies that examine the demographic, behavioural and attitudinal differences among televiewers and teleshoppers. This paper analyses the background of teleshopping and key drivers of future teleshopping decisions among Spanish consumers.
Exploring change in construction: supply chain management
Authors: Fernie Scott , Thorpe Anthony 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to explore the process of change within organisations in the construction sector related to the content of change called for by reformers such as Egan, Latham, Constructing Excellence and the “rethinking construction” movement. The concept of supply chain management is used within the research to facilitate this kind of exploration.Design/methodology/approachThe broad framework adopted in the paper is contextual in nature and informed by structuration theory and new institutionalism. The approach followed is a case study method that looks for literal replication across a number of cases.FindingsSupply chain management is found to be both synonymous with the concept of partnering and particularly problematic for organisations to implement within the construction sector due to specific contextual factors.Research limitations/implicationsAll methodological positions have limitations. Like all research this piece of work is the product of choices that could have been different and achieved different outcomes.Originality/valueThe findings support a view that contextual approaches provide greater insight into the problematic nature of change in the construction sector and concerns regarding the development of a robust, relevant and sustainable agenda for change within the sector.
Issues in the selection of fall prevention and arrest equipment
Authors: Cameron Iain , Gillan Gary , Roy Duff A. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe research objectives are to investigate current methods of fall protection, identify issues in their selection and use, and produce guidance on best practice for designers and constructors.Design/methodology/approachA steering group with both health and safety and production experience directed a variety of data collection methods: interviews with industry specialists to assist in identifying the significant issues in fall protection and selecting fall protection systems; study of published research, legislation, codes of practice, and system technical data; focus groups to investigate both generic and system‐specific issues; and visits to manufacturers, suppliers, contractors' offices and sites, to observe and discuss systems in development, planning, erection and operation.FindingsThis paper deals with all the general issues in equipment selection: a hierarchy of selection; legislative guidance; interaction with the structure; impact on site operations; rescue of fallers; issues specific to maintenance and refurbishment; and costs arising from equipment selection.Originality/valueThe paper provides a summary of the most important issues contained in the full Health & Safety Executive report of the research, the only comprehensive source of such practical guidance.
Enhancing the capability of rapid bridge replacement after extreme events
Authors: Bai Yong , Hoon Kim Seong , Burkett William R. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe potential threats of extreme events to highway bridges have received increased attention from government agencies, the engineering and construction communities, and the traveling public. These events include terrorist attacks as well as human‐induced and natural hazards such as earthquakes, explosions, fires, floods, and hurricanes. To respond to the potential threats on highway bridges, a research project was conducted to identify rapid bridge replacement processes, techniques, and needs for improvements.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve the research objectives, a detailed case study of previous bridge replacement following an extreme event was conducted. The case study was performed using a three‐step approach. First, the research team reviewed the literature related to the case. Second, the research team interviewed the people who were involved with the case via the telephone. Third, the research team conducted a written survey to gain knowledge about the previously unanswered questions and additional information related to the case.FindingsAfter studying the case, lessons learned were identified first. Then, the research team determined the processes that were used in the rapid bridge replacements and the needed improvements so that the research community could investigate new technologies to advance current practices.Originality/valueThe lessons learned could be of benefit to government agencies who are responsible for development of the enhanced emergency response plans for highway bridges, and engineering and construction communities who are responsible for design and reconstruction of the damaged bridges. The development of new technologies, if successful, will ultimately enhance the capability of rapid bridge replacement after extreme events.
A heterogeneous resource based view for exploring relationships between firm performance and capabilities
Authors: DeSarbo Wayne S. , Di Benedetto C. Anthony , Song Michael 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThe resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm has gained much attention in recent years as a means to understand how a strategic business unit obtains a sustainable competitive advantage. In this framework, several research studies have explored the relationships between resources/capabilities and firm performance. This paper seeks to extend this line of research by explicitly modeling the heterogeneity of such relations across firms in various different industries in exploring the interrelationships between capabilities and performance.Design/methodology/approachA unique latent structure regression model is developed to provide a discrete representation of this heterogeneity in terms of different clusters or groups of firms who employ different paths to achieve firm performance vis‐à‐vis alternative capabilities. An application of the proposed methodology to a sample of 216 US firms were provided.FindingsFinds that the derived four group latent structure regression solution statistically dominates the one aggregate sample regression function. Substantive interpretation for the findings is provided.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the understanding of the performance effects of investing in capabilities in the RBV framework, which has previously been lacking, especially in the areas of information technology capabilities.
Application of grey‐based rough decision‐making approach to suppliers selection
Authors: Li Guo‐Dong , Yamaguchi Daisuke , Nagai Masatake 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to resolve the uncertain problem in suppliers selection chain management system through using the proposed multiple attribute decision‐making (MADM) approach.Design/methodology/approachThe approach which combines grey system theory with rough set theory is proposed.FindingsThis proposed approach take advantage of mathematical analysis power of grey system theory and at the same time take advantage of data mining and knowledge discovery power of rough set theory. It will be suitable to decision making under a more uncertain environment.Originality/valueProvides a viewpoint on the attribute values and attribute weights of rough set decision table for all alternatives are decided by grey number based on grey system theory. The best ideal supplier can be decided by grey relational analysis based on grey number.
The development of planning horizon theory and the comparison of decision/forecast horizons for dynamic lot size models
Authors: Lin Feng‐Jyh 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the case of the multi‐period optimisation problem where decisions are obtained from a finite horizon model and will be implemented in a situation in which the system will operate indefinitely.Design/methodology/approachThe production planning problem is addressed in which the quantity of the product required (demand) in future periods is being forcast, from which one must decide when and how much to produce.FindingsFinds that a regeneration set is key for finding forecast horizon (FH) and decision horizon (DH) in the dynamic lot size model (DLSM). A regeneration set contains the optimal regeneration points in some conceivable future horizon.Originality/valueThis paper extends the research on horizons which has accumulated in the literature over the last 40 years.
Dimensions of European direct investment activity in Turkey: patterns and prospects
Authors: Demirbag Mehmet , Tatoglu Ekrem , Glaister Keith W. 
Published: June 2007

PurposeThis paper delineates some basic trends and patterns of European foreign equity venture formations in Turkey over the 1996‐2003 period.Design/methodology/approachDrawing on a Turkish Government database, key statistics on European equity venture formations in Turkey are examined across several dimensions: trends in FDI over time, country of origin of investment, sector of investment, size of investment, geographical location and foreign equity shareholding.FindingsA structured analysis of the dataset and government statistical publications makes it possible to ascertain patterns with respect to FDI dimensions. FDI operations in Turkey are dominated mainly by European and US MNEs. The analyses also revealed that new FDI operations have changed the structural composition of overall FDI activity in Turkey. Another finding is that European equity venture formations tend to be located in the concentrated industries and also in the relatively fast growing industries. It is shown that there exist some differences among European investors when they are classified by country of origin. There are also locational differences by sector, entry date and country of origin. It appears that as European investors gain experience of the host country market, their entry mode may change over time.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the findings cast further light on the nature and pattern of European FDI activity in Turkey, it would be particularly useful in future research to investigate the core dimensions of the activity recorded in the dataset reported on here, in terms of motives for a particular mode of entry, forms of management control and performance outcomes by means of primary data collection from the parents and management of European equity ventures. The examined relationships set out in the present study are essentially univariate, so they cannot gauge which of the dimensions are likely to be more important in identifying trend and patterns of European FDI in Turkey, which constitutes a limitation of the survey.Originality/valueThese findings cast new light on the nature and pattern of European FDI activity in Turkey where there is a paucity of systematic information.
The Honda motorcycle business in the Vietnamese emerging market
Authors: Duc Tiep Nguyen 
Published: June 2007

PurposeTo explore subsidiary development in emerging markets and highlight the role of local factors on driving foreign firm business strategy.Design/methodology/approachThis study builds upon the diamond of competitive advantage framework with regard to determinants in the local environment. Chinese motorcycle penetration into Vietnamese market has made considerable changes from which Honda has upgraded manufacturing capability, moved to higher value activities. It shows a confident process of subsidiary development. The analysis is supported by interview data in three field trips.FindingsThe penetration of Chinese motorcycle into Vietnam has brought more opportunities. Honda can utilize for long‐term investments than challenges the firm had to temporarily deal with. The effect of changes in the local market was quite specific to Honda business. Consequentially, local factors have driven the firm emergent strategy into low‐price model which is considered as Honda's local specific product in Vietnam.Practical implicationsSelective environment disadvantages play an important role in making pressures on firms to engage in more sophisticated activities. The distinctive competence is obtained from co‐evolution between external and internal resources rather than one itself. Continuous improvement, finding discontinuity, and reconciling resources are necessary for firms, especially when competing in international emerging markets.Originality/valueThe case study reflects an interesting picture of competition in motorcycle industry under the new stage of international competitive environment. Honda Vietnam case shows different features from Honda in the past and other subsidiaries in the region as the firm exists to harmonize the two dichotomizations of motorcycle business architecture: Japanese and Chinese model.
Microparticles adhere to collagen type I, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor and surface immobilised platelets at physiological shear rates
Authors: Keuren J. F. W. , Magdeleyns E. J. P , Bennaghmouch A. , Bevers E. M. , Curvers J. , Lindhout T. 
Published: June 2007

SummaryMicroparticles (MPs), shed during the storage of platelets, support blood coagulation and could be helpful in restoring the haemostatic system in thrombocytopenic patients. The mechanisms by which MPs support haemostasis under flow conditions were investigated. Fluorescent‐labelled MPs were perfused at shear rates of 100 and 1000/s over surfaces coated with collagen, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor (VWF) or surface‐adherent platelets. Adhesion was monitored in real‐time by fluorescence microscopy. In addition, thrombin–antithrombin (TAT) complex formation was measured in flowing thrombocytopenic blood. MPs attained the capacity to firmly adhere to collagen, VWF, fibrinogen and surface‐adherent platelets at high and low shear rate. Antibodies against glycoprotein Ibα and αIIbβ3 were used to demonstrate the specificities of these interactions. The addition of MPs to thrombocytopenic blood did not affect platelet adhesion. TAT complex formation was increased in the presence of MPs in capillaries coated with fibrinogen, but not on collagen fibres. We confirmed that MPs adhere to a damaged vascular bed in vivo after infusion in denuded arteries in a mouse model. MPs have platelet‐like adhering properties and accelerate thrombin generation. These properties strongly support the notion that MPs can be beneficial in maintaining normal haemostasis when platelet function is impaired or reduced, as in thrombocytopenic patients.