Transaction Streams: Definition and Implications for Trust in Internet-Based Electronic Commerce.

In this paper we analyze how transactions related to the exchange of goods and services are being performed on the Internet. The adoption of electronic markets in an industry has a disintermediation potential because it can create a direct link between the producer and the consumer (without the need for the intermediation role of distributors). Electronic markets lower the search cost, allowing customers to choose among more providers (which ultimately reduces both the costs for the customer and the profits for the producer). In this paper we contend that electronic markets on the Internet have the opposite effect, resulting in our increase in the number of intermediators. We introduce transaction streams, which model how transactions are being conducted and help explain the types of new intermediators that are appearing on the Internet. We also describe mechanisms by which companies are exploring ways of extending transaction streams. To illustrate the model and validate our findings, we analyze transaction streams in the insurance industry and review associated concepts such as trust and brands.transactions; electronic markets;

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Workflow Study

Kentucky uses federally funded, time-limited (FFTL) employees to handle some of the administrative work necessary to meet federal compliance standards for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has decided not to continue funding FFTLs for these purposes, meaning that states will have to find other ways to meet CDL program requirements and maintain compliance. Given the potential ramifications of losing federal transportation and enforcement funding due to lack of compliance with federal standards, it is imperative that state lawmakers act to ensure KYTC has the resources to carry out its mandated functions. The study delineates federal and state CDL requirements, current workflow processes, surveys practices in other states, reports on the status of CDL workflow automation and develops three alternative funding mechanisms to stabilize program workflow while developers gather requirements for web-based applications to increase workflow efficiency. It also recommends other changes that would benefit KYTC, particularly the staff responsible for CDL program administration and compliance

Migration control for mobile agents based on passport and visa

Research on mobile agents has attracted much attention as this paradigm has demonstrated great potential for the next-generation e-commerce. Proper solutions to security-related problems become key factors in the successful deployment of mobile agents in e-commerce systems. We propose the use of passport and visa (P/V) for securing mobile agent migration across communities based on the SAFER e-commerce framework. P/V not only serves as up-to-date digital credentials for agent-host authentication, but also provides effective security mechanisms for online communities to control mobile agent migration. Protection for mobile agents, network hosts, and online communities is enhanced using P/V. We discuss the design issues in details and evaluate the implementation of the proposed system

Policy Review and Recommendation: Full Practice Authority for Nurse Practitioners in the Southwestern United States

This policy analysis investigates the benefits of full practice authority (FPA) for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in the Southwestern United States, using Arizona as an FPA model and California and Tennessee as comparison states. The PICO question that directed the project is: for NPs practicing as advanced practice nurse practitioners within the Southwestern United States region (P), does a comprehensive policy recommendation for FPA for NP-led clinics in the secondary education space (I) compared to existing variable approaches within the region (C) improve access to care and direct or indirect patient outcomes as endorsed by the literature (O)? A comprehensive literature review revealed that the United States is experiencing a significant primary care provider shortage. Although NPs are educationally prepared, tested, certified, and licensed to provide comprehensive patient care, California and Texas continue regulatory restrictions on NP scope of practice. These practice restrictions exacerbate the care shortage, especially in rural and primary health professional shortage areas. Furthermore, the literature search revealed consistent support of FPA by critical stakeholders, such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nurses Association, and the Consensus Model. Policy briefs advocating for evidence-based recommendations for FPA are presented for dissemination to the legislative bodies, professional organizations, and the state boards of nursing. Eliminating practice barriers allows NPs to practice to the fullest extent of their education and training. This results in greater access to care, reduced healthcare costs, increased quality of care, and works to lessen health disparities