bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Source of Scepticism
Authors: Pritchard Duncan 
Published: April 2005

AbstractI maintain that the neo-Moorean response to scepticism is unable, by itself at any rate, to completely resolve the sceptical problem. The reason for this is that the contemporary discussion of scepticism has misunderstood what the source of this problem is, and thus even the most plausible of the main anti-sceptical theories in the literature misses its intended target. To illustrate this, I contrast the closure-based template sceptical argument with its analogue argument expressed in terms of the ‘underdetermination’ principle that can be found in ancient Pyrrhonian sceptical writings, and which merely demands that one’s evidence should favour one’s beliefs over incompatible alternatives. I show how the latter argument brings to the fore just what is wrong with the contemporary debate regarding scepticism, which is its failure to respond to the specifically internalist and evidentialist character of the sceptical doubt.
Can there be non‐union forms of workplace partnership?
Authors: Dietz Graham , Cullen John , Coad Alan 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore a number of issues pertaining to the conceptualisation, operationalisation, feasibility and effectiveness of workplace partnership arrangements in a non‐unionised setting.Design/methodology/approachThe paper discusses the most common definitions of partnership to discern whether scope exists for non‐unionised forms. It then presents a detailed case study, based on 38 semi‐structured interviews with 29 interviewees, inside a non‐unionised company to analyse whether its people management arrangements conform with the definitions presented, and to examine the employees’ experience of those arrangements.FindingsThe paper notes that most partnership definitions can accommodate non‐unionised forms, if the arrangements for people management inside such firms meet certain standards on employee voice mechanisms and the exchange of mutual gains. The evidence from the case study suggests that its unusual policies and practices do conform with a viable model of non‐unionised partnership – albeit with some reservations. The benefits and concerns are discussed in the paper.Research implications/limitationsThe paper presents a credible definition and observable operationalisation of partnership for researchers to adopt. It encourages future research on the extent to which so‐called “partnership” organisations, including non‐union enterprises, comply and suggests comparative research between paired unionised and non‐unionised cases. However, it is limited to one case study.Originality/valueThe paper's primary value is in its extension of the partnership debate beyond its current “union‐only ghetto” into examining non‐unionised forms, as well. The case study is also unique in the literature as an example of non‐unionised partnership.
Taking the shopping centre online: new models in e‐commerce
Authors: Dixon Timothy , Marston Andrew 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to provide a brief re´sume´ of previous research which has analysed the impact of e‐commerce on retail real estate in the UK, and to examine the important marketing role of the internet for shopping centre managers, and retail landlords.Design/methodology/approachBased on the results from a wider study carried out in 2003, the paper uses case studies from two different shopping centres in the UK, and documents the innovative uses of both web‐based marketing and online retailing by organisations that historically have not directly been involved in the retailing process.FindingsThe paper highlights the importance of considering online sales within a multi‐channel approach to retailing. The two types of emerging shopping centre model which are identified are characterised by their ultimate relationship with the physical shopping centre on whose web site they reside. These can be summarised as: the “centre‐led” approach, and the “brand‐led” or “marketing‐led” approach.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is based on a limited number of in‐depth case studies and secondary data. Further research is needed to monitor the continuing impact of e‐commerce on retail property and the marketing strategies of shopping centre managers and owners.Practical implicationsInternet‐based sales provide an important adjunct to conventional retail sales and an important source of potential risk for landlords and tenants in the real estate investment market. Regardless of whether retailers use the internet as a sales channel, as a product‐sourcing tool, or merely to provide information to the consumer, the internet has become a keystone within the greater retail marketing mix. The findings have ramifications for understanding the way in which landlords are structuring their retail property to defray potential risks.Originality/valueThe paper examines shopping centre online marketing models for the first time in detail, and will be of value to retail occupiers, owners and other stakeholders of shopping centres.
The research of the decomposition‐coordination method of multidisciplinary collaboration design optimization
Authors: Chen Jianjiang , Zhong Yifang , Xiao Renbin , Sun Jianxun 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo obtain the global optimum of large‐scale complex engineering systems, the paper proposes a decomposition‐coordination method of multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO).Design/methodology/approachA rational decomposition approach based on artificial neural network (ANN) and genetic algorithms is proposed for partitioning the complex design problem into smaller, more tractable subsystems. Once the problem is decomposed into subsystems, each subsystem may be solved in parallel provided that there is some mechanism to coordinate the solutions in the different subsystems. So the response surface approximation model based on the ANN as a coordination method is described and a MDO framework is presented.FindingsThe proposed method was implemented in the design of a tactical missile. Numerical results show the effectiveness of the decomposition‐coordination method, as indicated by both better performance and lower computational requirements.Originality/valueThis paper adopts a novel MDO method to solve complex engineering problem and offers a potential and efficient MDO framework to researchers.
Affective responses to work process and outcomes in virtual teams
Authors: Caballer Amparo , Gracia Francisco , Peiró José‐María 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo analyze the direct and combined effects of the communication media and time pressure in group work on the affective responses of team members while performing intellective tasksDesign/methodology/approachA laboratory experiment was carried out with 124 subjects working in 31 groups. The task performed by the groups was an intellective one. A 2 × 3 factorial design with three media (face‐to‐face, video‐conference, and e‐mail) and time pressure (with and without time pressure) was used to determine the direct and combined effects of these two variables on group members' satisfaction with the process and with the results, and on members' commitment with the decision.FindingsResults show a direct effect of communication media on satisfaction with the process, which confirms the prediction of the media‐task fit model, and a negative effect of time pressure on satisfaction with group results and commitment to those results. Most interestingly, the interaction effects for the three dependent variables are significant and show that the most deleterious effects of time pressure are produced in groups working face‐to‐face, while groups mediated by video‐conference improve their affective responses under time pressure.Research limitations/implicationsSome limitations are the use of a student sample, so generalizability of the findings is limited, and the use of only one task type.Practical implicationsIt can help one to know how to design work to improve satisfaction and implication of workers.Originality/valueThis paper shows some innovations as the combined effects of media and time pressure, controlling for the task type on group members' affective responses to their work and achievements.
The application of the interperiod tax allocation method in the Spanish firms
Authors: Gallego Isabel 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this work is to analyse both from a theoretical and an empirical point of view the reversal of positive and negative temporary differences in Spanish firms and, derived from the reversal, to question whether the comprehensive allocation or the partial allocation of temporary differences is more or less profitable for firms.Design/methodology/approachThe audited annual accounts of the firms registered in the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores – the Spanish version of the SEC – during the periods 1996, 1997 and 1998 were analysed. To analyse the differences obtained, the sample was first disaggregated into different groups, according to whether the differences were positive or negative temporary reversed. A calculation was made of some descriptive statistics together with an analysis of both the mean and the variance, which made it possible to draw robust conclusions on the way Spanish firms report their positive and negative temporary differences reversed.FindingsThe paper provides information about the positive and negative temporary differences reversals by year (1996, 1997 and 1998) and by sector of activities (energy and water, construction, transport and communications, real estate and others) in the sample period and compares them over time.Research limitations/implicationsThe highest percentage corresponds to “other negative and positive temporary differences reversals” including those cases where firms do not specify which type of operation has motivated the difference and use the comprehensive allocation of temporary differences; it is very difficult to follow up all the future reversals.Practical implicationsA very useful source of information for Spanish firms and for investigators in this subject.Originality/valueThis paper is pioneering in the analysis of the reversal of temporary differences in Spanish firms, as well as in determining whether the use of the comprehensive or partial tax allocation of temporary differences is more or less appropriate.
A dedicated follower of fashion: the expansion strategy of David Linley & Co. Ltd
Authors: Doyle Stephen A. , Reid Jenny 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to consider the adaptability of the traditional growth strategies of couture/fashion houses in the context of non‐fashion sectors.Design/methodology/approachBy means of a case study approach based upon David Linley & Co. Ltd, a furniture design company, it explores the relevance of implementing a strategy based upon product extension as a means to market development and internationalisation.FindingsThe research demonstrates the distinct and conscious similarities between the strategy adopted by the company and that of the fashion houses as delineated in the literature. The paper concludes that there is value in pan‐sector consideration in respect of strategic planning, particularly when there are acknowledged similarities in the relative positioning of the companies within their markets.Originality/valueProvides information on the strategic thinking of one company – based on the probable experiences and expectations of customers – which may have wider applicability in other areas of the fahion industry.
Salesperson roles: are online retailers meeting customer expectations?
Authors: Kim Minjeong , Stoel Leslie 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to explore online customer service dimensions and to examine how attitude toward online customer service influences online purchase intent.Design/methodology/approachThe human factors approach was employed to identify online customer service dimensions by analyzing service provided by salespeople at retail stores. Regression analyses supported the predictive validity of these measures, revealing that customer service dimensions of ease in searching, availability of frequently asked questions (FAQs), availability of in‐stock status information, and ease of comparison shopping were important predictors of online purchase intent.FindingsResults from this study suggest that online retailers need to provide more information (e.g. FAQs) and make browsing easier to help customers have satisfactory shopping experience.Originality/valueProvides useful information that online retailers can utilize in the development and operation of successful shopping sites.
Development of a qualitative reasoning model for financial forecasting
Authors: Kesh Someswar , Raja M.K. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo develop a model for financial forecasting using the principles of qualitative reasoning.Design/methodology/approachThe model was developed using theories in the accounting, finance, and marketing literature. Quantitative equations were transformed into their equivalent qualitative forms. Qualitative equations, where applicable, were developed and integrated with the quantitative equations.FindingsThe research demonstrated that qualitative reasoning models can be used for financial forecasting, decision making and control.Research limitations/implicationsThe model used is experimental and relatively simple. More complex models should be developed for real life applications.Practical implicationsDevelopment of this model demonstrates that more complex models for specific applications in various business domains can be developed and used. Since business decision making requires both qualitative and quantitative inputs, models such as these may be of great practical value.Originality/valueThe paper will be valuable to those who want to develop such models in business domains.
Facilitating conversational learning in a project team practice
Authors: Sense Andrew J. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper seeks to provide an empirical insight into the facilitation dilemmas for conversational learning in a project team environment.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is an outcome of a participative action research process into the dynamics of situated learning activity in a case study project team. As part of their organizational change project (which included an explicit project goal of developing their collective and individual learning competencies) the case study project team initiated and undertook a series of participative “learning‐how‐to‐learn” workshops. These workshops were “learning spaces” that were centred on engaging “conversations” to both initiate and promote interpersonal understanding and critical reflective practice between the participants.FindingsIn evaluating the discontinuities experienced between the planned phases and activities in these “learning space” workshop processes, three key lessons that the participants learnt about facilitating conversational learning in this setting are identified and elaborated upon.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is based upon a case study of the learning activities of one project team. The opportunity exists to repeat the study in different projects and other group settings.Practical implicationsThis paper offers practical guidance to learning professionals and learning practitioners in how to provide a receptive conversational context for learning between people.Originality/valueThis paper illustrates the power of conversational approaches to nurturing learning activity. Furthermore, the lessons identified constitute heuristics to pragmatically aid conversational learning amongst people in project team “learning spaces” and in other similar group settings, where conversations are considered core to the learning development process.
Technology convergence and regulatory challenge: a case from Korean digital media broadcasting
Authors: Shin Dong‐Hee 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis study seeks to survey the current convergence of broadcasting and telecommunication, examine the policy questions that arise in Korea and present a review of current regulation in this field.Design/methodology/approachFrom a technical perspective, the convergence between telecommunications and broadcasting is emerging as both industries move towards digital standards. Yet, from a policy‐making perspective, convergence seems premature and may not be desirable. This study focuses in particular on the digital media broadcasting (DMB) service, which is currently being developed in Korea.FindingsThe paper suggests perspectives on forthcoming satellite DMB service developments, and the implications of this emerging technological breakthrough. The study indicates that current broadcasting‐based regulatory frameworks may tend to deter technological convergence and thus delay service introduction in the market.Originality/valueThe paper concludes with a new regulatory model with more consideration of service providers and users.
A framework to review performance measurement systems
Authors: Najmi Manoochehr , Rigas John , Fan Ip‐Shing 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThis paper aims to describe a structured review framework for managing business performance. The framework entails the review of business performance, including the strategic relevance of the measures, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of the performance measurement system itself.Design/methodology/approachA range of approaches and tools are employed in the framework, which features a review card providing a high‐level view of the review process, showing the different types of review perspectives and their interactions.FindingsThe performance measurement system of an organisation is a mechanism to manage and control the organisation. Maintaining the effectiveness of the organisation and the measurement systems requires a systematic review process. The process of reviewing performance is a complex task that spans the whole organisation. A good review process seeks the correct balance between organisational benefits and the effort required.Originality/valueOverall, the framework presented provides a structured path of performance review in a methodical and effective manner. This is useful for practitioners to apply and adapt in their situations.
Business Mobilization and Public Policy in the U.S. States*
Authors: Witko Christopher , Newmark Adam J. 
Published: April 2005

Objective.The goal of this study is to examine how the political mobilization of business interests influences aggregate public policy outputs in the states. We examine the relationship between business mobilization and general state policy liberalism, as well as policy that we term state “business policy climate.”Methods.We construct a measure of the “business policy climate” from a number of tax and regulatory indicators in the states and examine whether business influences it and policy liberalism using ordinary least squares regression.Results.The analysis shows that business mobilization does not influence general policy liberalism but is a significant influence on a state's business policy climate. Specifically, the dominance of a state's campaign finance system by business interests makes policy more favorable toward business.Conclusions.The extent of business mobilization in a state is an important influence on public policy outputs but is constrained by the activities of other political actors such as unions.
Topical treatment of ocular surface defects: comparison of the epitheliotrophic capacity of fresh frozen plasma and serum on corneal epithelial cells in an in vitro cell culture model
Authors: Hartwig D. , Herminghaus P. , Wedel T. , Liu L. , Schlenke P. , Dibbelt L. , Geerling G. 
Published: April 2005

summary.  Accelerated healing of ocular surface disorders was reported using serum for topical application. It is supposed that growth factors, fibronectin and vitamins in serum support the proliferation of corneal epithelial cells. The use of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) instead of serum is theoretically attractive, as it is more easily available from blood banks. In this study, serum and FFP were investigated for composition of epitheliotrophic factors and effect on corneal epithelial cells.Whole blood was taken from five donors. Serum and FFP were prepared, and the concentrations of epithelial growth factor (EGF), Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor‐β1, fibronectin and vitamin A were determined. Immortalized human corneal epithelial cells were used to investigate growth, migration and differentiation in response to both blood products.Significant differences were found regarding the mediator composition of serum and FFP. Serum rather than FFP was significantly superior in stimulating cell growth, migration and differentiation.The epitheliotrophic capacity of blood products depends upon the composition of growth factors and vitamins. Blood clotting strongly influences the growth factor pattern. The superior epitheliotrophic capacity of serum might be due to the higher concentration of proliferation mediators such as EGF and PDGF and its higher content of vitamin A.
Visualization of grain subdivision by analysing the misorientations within a grain using electron backscatter diffraction
Authors: VAN BOXEL S. , SEEFELDT M. , VERLINDEN B. , VAN HOUTTE P. 
Published: April 2005

SummaryThe misorientation relative to the average orientation of a grain and the point‐to‐point relative misorientation along a line across a moderately cold deformed grain, calculated from an electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) dataset, are analysed in detail by visualizing both the misorientation angle and the misorientation axis. The significance of monitoring the misorientation axis is illustrated by an example of a grain subdivided into a misorientation band structure. A new technique to visualize the subdivision structure by assigning colours to misorientations in such a way that the contrast is maximized within a grain is introduced and discussed. Furthermore, some methods for grain boundary reconstruction from EBSD datasets are compared with the map of the confidence index in order to provide a validation of the accuracy of these methods.