bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel isolation technology utilizing Si selective epitaxial growth
Authors: Hori Atsushi , Hirai Takehiro
Published: July 2007

An ultra‐high vacuum silicon selective epitaxial method has been used in the LSI process for the first time. Using this epitaxial growth method, the gap between the oxide film pattern and epitaxial layer (facet width) is as small as 0.03 μm and selective epitaxial growth can be produced in the microscopic active regions. Therefore, this method is suitable for reducing device size. The leak currents between source and drain and between devices are comparable with those in Si‐bulk MOS devices, indicating that crystalline defect density is small in this epitaxial film. The channel in the MOS transistor formed using this epitaxial layer is extremely small. Transconductance of an nMOS transistor with an extremely short and narrow channel (gate length 0.1 μm and gate width 0.3 μm) was 530 mS/mm.
Single axial mode operation of resonantly pumped Yb:YAG microchip lasers
Authors: Taira Takunori , Tulloch William M. , Byer Robert L. , Kobayashi Takao
Published: July 2007

In recent years, high‐efficiency oscillation of Yb:YAG lasers has been demonstrated, although it used to be considered unsuitable as laser material. Yb:YAG has received attention as a next‐generation high‐power, high‐stability laser because Yb3+ has a low quantum defect rate and a long upper‐state lifetime of 1 ms, and has no state higher than the laser upper state. However, single axial mode oscillation is difficult as Yb has a very wide fluorescence width of 2.66 THz, and no information on high coherency has yet been reported.

In this paper, the single axial mode oscillation of a Yb:YAG microchip laser is investigated experimentally and theoretically. In microchip lasers, when a single axial mode oscillation is attempted by matching the axial mode separation of the cavity to the fluorescence width and a laser material with very wide fluorescence width is used, the pump absorption efficiency degrades significantly. To compensate the absorption efficiency, a pump scheme using the resonant effect in an etalon is investigated. Single axial mode oscillation with an output power of 30 mW, a threshold of 13 mW, and a slope efficiency of 14.8 percent is achieved in an 80‐μm‐thick Yb:YAG (10 atom percent doped) microchip laser pumped by a Ti:Al2O3 laser.
A solid‐phase epitaxy with clean surface formation using SiH4 and Evaluation of SOI Layer
Authors: Kodama Masahito , Funabashi Hirofumi , Mitsushima Yasuichi , Taga Yasunori
Published: July 2007

We investigated a method of solid‐phase epitaxy (SPE) using low‐vacuum, low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) equipment without the load lock chamber that is usually used for the Si LSI process. This is a new method of clean surface formation in which the Si substrate is heated after seed formation in an atmosphere of SiH4 gas. Using this method, an L‐SPE length of 4 μm was obtained. The reason for the success of this method appears to be that the seed surface cleaned by HF dipping is preserved by the SiH4 gas.

To evaluate the quality of the silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) layer formed by this method, a MOSFET and a PN diode were experimentally produced. The MOSFET exhibited normal transistor action, which confirmed that the SOI layer had satisfactory quality without any problem in manufacturing the MOSFET. However, it was found that the n value of the forward direction current characteristic of the PN diode was 1.156 and that the SOI layer had more recombination centers than the Si substrate (n = 1.050).
An Unusual Carbonyl Chemical Shift in a Carbonylhexairidium Cluster: A Combined Solid‐State NMR and DFT Approach (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 22/2007)
Authors: Chierotti Michele R. , Garlaschelli Luigi , Gobetto Roberto , Nervi Carlo , Peli Giulia , Sironi Annalisa , Della Pergola Roberto
Published: July 2007

The cover picture shows the structure and the 13C NMR spectrum of [Ir6(CO)15]2− at 173 K. It features an unprecedented μ2‐bridging carbonyl low frequency shift; the resonances of the terminal μ1‐carbonyl groups are placed at higher frequencies. This unusual trend has been explained by combined use of DFT calculations and solid‐state NMR parameters, such us chemical shift tensors and shielding anisotropies. The scalar and Spin‐Orbit (SO) relativistic two‐component Zero‐Order Regular Approximation (ZORA) methods have been employed in the geometry optimization and NMR chemical shift calculations, respectively. The large SO contribution (26.6 ppm) to the 13C chemical shifts of the μ2‐bridging CO groups accounts for the position of the experimentally observed resonance. This work outlines the importance of the SO evaluation in cases of atoms connected to heavy metal atoms. Details are discussed in the article by L. Garlaschelli, R. Gobetto et al. on p. 3487 ff.
In‐channel atom‐transfer radical polymerization of thermoset polyester microfluidic devices for bioanalytical applications
Authors: Pan Tao , Fiorini Gina S. , Chiu Daniel T. , Woolley Adam T.
Published: July 2007

A new technique for polymer microchannel surface modification, called in‐channel atom‐transfer radical polymerization, has been developed and applied in the surface derivatization of thermoset polyester (TPE) microdevices with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electroosmotic flow (EOF), and contact angle measurements indicate that PEG has been grafted on the TPE surface. Moreover, PEG‐modified microchannels have much lower and more pH‐stable EOF, more hydrophilic surfaces and reduced nonspecific protein adsorption. Capillary electrophoresis separation of amino acid and peptide mixtures in these PEG‐modified TPE microchips had good reproducibility. Phosducin‐like protein and phosphorylated phosducin‐like protein were also separated to measure the phosphorylation efficiency. Our results indicate that PEG‐grafted TPE microchips have broad potential application in biomolecular analysis.
Learning self‐direction in a social and experiential context
Authors: Vann Barry A.
Published: July 2007

This article reviews eclectic research on how adults learn self‐direction in a social and experiential context. The literature review synthesizes research from various social sciences with adult education. A cognitive‐behaviorist model of learning, delineated in the article, suggests ways to help learners develop this orientation.
Learning orientation of employees: Moving toward organization‐based assessment
Authors: Porter Gayle , Tansky Judith W.
Published: July 2007

Employees who are oriented toward learning will more readily adapt when a task is not completed successfully, while employees concerned with others' judgment of their performance will withdraw from the task. Prior work in psychology has established the existence of these contrasting tendencies and the individuals' corresponding beliefs about the malleability of personal traits. This study extends this work by bringing it into an organizational context. Subjects' beliefs were measured with surveys and compared to their derisions during an experiment conducted at a different time. The results indicated that the “learning orientation” construct may be a useful tool for organizations. Implications are discussed in terms of identifying and developing employees' learning orientations.
Improving positive transfer: A test of relapse prevention training on transfer outcomes
Authors: Burke Lisa A.
Published: July 2007

This study examined the effect of relapse prevention (RP) training on the maintenance of learned knowledge and skills. After a session on assertive communication, ninety trainees were randomly assigned to three treatment conditions: a full RP group, a modified RP group, and a control group. The results showed that both of the RP operationalizations significantly affected the trainees' ability to transfer and desire to transfer, although in different ways; neither RP condition significantly affected retention of course content, use of transfer strategies, or use of trained skills; and (3) cognitive and behavioral transfer strategies significantly affected use of trained skills. This paper discusses implications of the findings for practice and future directions for research.
Predicting positive self‐efficacy in group problem solving
Authors: Wolf Kay N.
Published: July 2007

Problem‐solving groups are increasingly being used to involve employees in improving organizational performance. This study looked at people working in an organization that had reported group problem‐solving activities. It examined attributes including orientation toward group problem solving, general problem‐solving confidence, and expertise as well as demographic characteristics to determine their relative contributions to reported self‐efficacy in solving work problems in groups. Respondents (n = 288) completed questionnaires to assess the variables. Using stepwise multiple regression, it was found that educational level, expertise in the work area, problem‐solving confidence, orientation toward group problem solving, and amount of previous participation in such groups explained 47 percent of the variance in reported self‐efficacy. The results suggest that before inclusion in such groups, poorly educated people need training to increase their knowledge about the problem and to practice group problem solving.
The job training experiences of black and white women, 1970–1991
Authors: Caputo Richard K. , Cianni Mary
Published: July 2007

This study uses data from the National Longitudinal Study of Labor Market Experience, Young Women's Cohort, to examine job training characteristics and sociodemographic factors that had a significant impact on the earning potential of women throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Specifically, we investigated the job training patterns of women, by race, across the two decades; the influence of family status on training opportunities; the effects of demographic characteristics as well as training attributes on completion rates of women, by race; and the contribution of human capital on income levels. Most significant is the finding that as the cohort of women matured, the cumulative intensity of job training began to account for some variance in income, albeit marginal.
Locus of control and incentive in self‐managing teams
Authors: Garson Bonnie E. , Stanwyck Douglas J.
Published: July 2007

A simulation game of employees working in self‐managed teams was used to test the effects of locus of control and performance‐contingent incentives on productivity and job satisfaction. The only performance effect was that participants with external locus of control (externals) in the incentive condition outperformed externals without incentive. Participants with internal locus of control (internals) were more satisfied with their supervisors than were externals. This article discusses implications for employee involvement approaches and makes recommendations for further research.
Selected alternative training techniques in HRD
Authors: von Bergen C. W. , Soper Barlow , Rosenthal Gary T. , Wilkinson Lamar V.
Published: July 2007

Over the years a number of training techniques and procedures have been developed that are not part of the mainstream but are believed by some to have utility for organizations trying to enhance human performance. This article discusses four of these alternative techniques—subliminal self‐help, mental imagery and practice, meditation, and Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)—and examines the contributions of each from a scientific perspective. With the exception of mental practice, there is a paucity of data to demonstrate convincingly whether these alternative techniques promote or enhance individual or organizational effectiveness. It is concluded that effective professional practice depends on scientifically derived research results.
Overcoming barriers to training utilizing technology: The influence of self‐efficacy factors on multimedia‐based training receptiveness
Authors: Christoph Richard T. , Schoenfeld Gerald A. , Tansky Judith W.
Published: July 2007

Corporations competing in the global market face a number of challenges and opportunities in effective human resources training. Many firms address this issue by emphasizing multimedia‐based training systems. Given the rapid increase in multimedia‐based training, it is important that barriers to effective use of this technology be identified. There is substantial evidence in the human resources training literature that low self‐efficacy levels among trainees can form a barrier to a specific training technique. Therefore, it is reasonable to believe that receptiveness to multimedia‐based training among trainees may differ based on multimedia self‐efficacy. This issue was examined through the use of factor analysis, which revealed two significant selfefficacy factors: developed self‐efficacy and existing self‐efficacy. These factors proved to be highly significant to respondents' perceptions of multimedia training effectiveness. The finding suggests that training effectiveness is determined not only by the training content and media presentation but also by the trainees' self‐efficacy.
A win‐win paradigm for quality of work life and business performance
Authors: Lau R. S. M. , May Bruce E.
Published: July 2007

This study develops and tests hypotheses to examine empirically how the perceived image of a company's quality of work life will affect its market and financial performances. Growth and profitability of two groups of publicly held companies were compared based on sales growth, asset growth, return on equity, and return on assets. The first group consisted of fifty‐eight companies identified as the best companies to work for in the United States; the second group consisted of eighty‐eight of Standard and Poor's top one hundred companies. Statistical evidence found in this study supports a paradigm that aligns the interests of the investor, manager, and employee stakeholders into a win‐win situation. Findings from this empirical study suggest that companies with high quality of work life can also enjoy exceptional growth and profitability.
Current status and future trends of diversity initiatives in the workplace: Diversity experts' perspective
Authors: Wentling Rose Mary , Palma‐Rivas Nilda
Published: July 2007

This article reports the results of a study on the current status and future trends in diversity initiatives in the workplace as perceived by a group of twelve experts. The experts were surveyed through in‐depth, open‐ended telephone interviews. The study identified barriers that have inhibited the employment, development, retention, and promotion of diverse groups in the workplace and the significant factors that are influencing diversity initiatives. It revealed that the primary reasons for managing diversity are to improve productivity and remain competitive, to form better work relationships among employees, to enhance social responsibility, and to address legal concerns. This article presents these findings as well as the best strategies for managing diversity. It also discusses components of an effective diversity training program and future trends related to diversity.
HRD policymaking in companies: An interpretation of the differences
Authors: Wognum Ida
Published: July 2007

This exploratory study examines HRD policymaking processes in companies. HRD representatives of companies in three economic sectors with more than five hundred employees were asked to complete a questionnaire. Variables include the HRD policymaking process, strategic choices about the specific field content of HRD programs and participating employees, starting points for HRD processes, and characteristics of the company and the HRD department. Significant differences in the HRD policymaking process and resulting strategic choices were found between groups of companies. These findings stress the importance of further investigation of effective and specific types of HRD policymaking processes within companies. This is important in order to align HRD programs to the company's situation and thus provide employees with the right competencies at the right time to enhance their performance and that of their department and the whole company.
Computer training and individual differences: When method matters
Authors: Harp Candice G. , Taylor Sandra C. , Satzinger John W.
Published: July 2007

This study examined individual preferences for three common software training methods: computer‐based training (CBT), video tutorials, and instructorled classroom training. Two hundred and sixty‐three licensed users of a software product were interviewed by phone and asked about their perceptions of the usefulness of the training methods. Results indicate that CBT and instructor‐led classroom training are perceived to be more useful than videos and that CBT may be an effective and lower‐cost substitute for classroom training for some groups of computer users.
Vocational and psychosocial mentoring functions: Identifying mentors who serve both
Authors: Mullen Ellen J.
Published: July 2007

Results of this study help identify those who serve both vocational and psychosocial mentoring functions. Mentoring research has suggested that protégés are drawn to competent mentors (Olian, Carroll, Giannantonio, and Feren, 1988) but has not empirically examined which mentors serve both vocational (career‐related) and psychosocial (personal development) functions. Serving in both capacities indicates the most intense mentoring (Kram, 1983). In this study, older mentors who have greater organization‐based self‐esteem (OBSE), who perceive the protégé as competent, and who are influenced by their protégés reported serving more vocational and psychosocial mentoring functions. Protégés indicated that the matter of who initiates the relationship determines whether vocational and psychosocial functions are both served.
Managers as facilitators of learning in learning organizations
Authors: Ellinger Andrea D. , Watkins Karen E. , Bostrom Robert P.
Published: July 2007

The concept of learning organization has received considerable attention in the literature, but from a scholarly perspective little empirical research has been done in this area. This article reports on a qualitative study in which the critical incident technique was used to examine the perceptions of managers regarding their beliefs, behaviors, triggers, and outcomes when they serve as facilitators of learning for their employees. An overview of the major findings are provided from a macrolevel perspective. The results suggest that there are specific behavior sets that define the role of facilitator of learning for managers in this study. Implications for practice are discussed and recommendations for further research are provided.
Formal developmental relationships: A survey of organizational practices
Authors: Douglas Christina A. , McCauley Cynthia D.
Published: July 2007

Representatives from a random sample of 300 U.S. corporations were interviewed by telephone to examine their use of formal developmental relationships as a management development strategy. Based on an 82 percent response rate, findings were obtained regarding the frequency of programs using formal developmental relationships, expectations regarding future use of formal developmental relationships, program characteristics, program visibility, and program effectiveness. In addition, comparisons between organizations with programs and organizations without programs were made on the basis of organization size, sales volume, employee trends, sales trends, and organizational age. From the 246 participating organizations, 52 respondents indicated that their organization had at least one management development initiative currently in place that paired employees with peers, senior managers, or outside consultants. Specific types of initiatives discussed by the respondents included one‐on‐one mentoring, apprenticeships, team coaching, peer coaching, executive coaching, action learning, and structured networks. Organizations with initiatives in place tended to employ more individuals and have larger sales volumes than organizations with no programs in place.
Assessing the impact of influential observations on multiple regression analysis in human resource research
Authors: Bates Reid A. , Holton Elwood F. , Burnett Michael F.
Published: July 2007

An overlooked aspect of multiple regression research using employee‐provided data is the potential for microlevel bias that can influence regression results. This article demonstrates the potential impact of influential observations using a case study and outlines an improved procedure for identifying which influential observations to delete. Because human resource research frequently asks employees to provide information about themselves or others, the potential for microlevel bias is almost always present. Increased attention to evaluating influential observations and outliers is suggested.
Trends in incidence of skin basal cell carcinoma. Additional evidence from a UK primary care database study
Authors: Bath‐Hextall Fiona , Leonardi‐Bee Jo , Smith Chris , Meal Andy , Hubbard Richard
Published: July 2007

We determined the trends in incidence of skin basal cell carcinoma (BCC) using a primary care population‐based cohort study in the UK. 11,113 adults with a BCC diagnosis were identified from a total of 7.22 million person‐years of data between 1996 and 2003 from the Health Improvement Network database. From a random subsample of BCC cases identified from the database, 93% were confirmed by hospital letter and/or pathology report. The incidence of BCC was 153.9 per 100,000 person‐years (95% CI 151.1, 156.8) and was slightly higher in men as compared to women (Incidence Rate Ratio 1.10, 95% CI 1.06, 1.14). There was a 3% increase year on year across the study period (IRR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01, 1.04), with the largest increase in incidence seen in the 30–39 year age groups, although this did not reach statistical significance. Our study indicates 53,000 new cases of BCC are estimated every year in the UK and figures are continuing to rise on a yearly basis. Incidence rates are highest for men and in particular in the older age categories. These findings are consistent with those reported for various other populations. We have also found an increase in incidence in ages 30–39, which may suggest a cohort effect of increasing ultraviolet exposure in successive younger generations. This may have a huge public and service impact in future years in countries such as the UK, with predominantly fair‐skinned population, with high leisure exposure to ultraviolet light. Our findings underline the need for more elaborate preventive measures. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tumors caused by overexpression and forced activation of Stat5 in mammary epithelial cells of transgenic mice are parity‐dependent and developed in aged, postestropausal females
Authors: Eilon Tali , Groner Bernd , Barash Itamar
Published: July 2007

In transgenic mice overexpressing Stat5 or a constitutively activated Stat5 variant (STAT5ca), we show for the first time that parity is required for the development of tumors in postestropausal females. Tumors were detected in glands of multiparous transgenic female mice after latency period of 14 months, but rarely in their age‐matched virgin (AMV) counterparts. This period was not affected by distinguishable tumor pathologies and was not dependent upon transgenic Stat5 variant. To associate Stat5 deregulation, parity and the postestropausal tumor occurrence with mammary cancer formation, the activities of endogenous and transgenic Stat5 were measured in the glands of aged multiparous and AMV females. No differences in phosphorylated Stat5 (pStat5) levels were found between the 2 cohorts. However, promoter sequences comprising the Stat5 binding sites from the cyclin D1 or the bcl‐x genes associate differentially with acetylated histone H4 in aged multiparous and AMV STAT5ca transgenic females. Individual epithelial cells varied greatly with respect to the presence of nuclear pStat5. A small subset of epithelial cells, in which pStat5 and cyclin D1 were co‐expressed, was exclusively present in the multiparous glands. Changes in chromatin structure might persist past the reproductive life time of the multiparous mice and contribute to the transcription of the cyclin D1 gene by activated Stat5. This may cause the detectable expression of cyclin D1 and add to the process of tumorigenesis. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
What is driving health care costs, and what can financial officers do about it?
Authors: Coddington Dean C. , Keen David J. , Moore Keith D. , Clarke Richard L.
Published: July 2007

Less than a decade after the introduction of more competition, which was expected to control costs, the U.S. health care system is in crisis. Employers' health care costs are increasing at more than five times the Consumer Price Index increases and more than 2.5 times as fast as payments to hospitals. The primary cause of these runaway health care costs is neither increased usage nor higher prices, but the shifting of the growing costs of unreimbursed and underreimbursed care to a shrinking base of employers and employees. The solution lies in pursuing one of three paths to radical reform of health care reimbursements.
Gauging the financial solidity of property casualty insurers
Authors: Haver Walter
Published: July 2007

Since 1984, the year in which the last and, some would argue, the worst insurance underwriting cycle “bottomed out,” an average of twenty property casualty companies per year have suffered insolvencies. The House Oversight and Investigative Subcommittee has issued a report that is highly critical of the ways in which the solvency of insurers is regulated by the states, comparing the current situation in the insurance industry to the early period of the S&L crisis.

While current solvency regulation may be imperfect, to assert that the insurance industry is on a track towards an S&L style crash is farfetched. This article examines that assertion, and presents indicators that corporate finance people should look for when trying to gauge the solidity of an insurer.
The productive office
Authors: Dickins Denise E.
Published: July 2007

The accounting office is knee‐deep in documents trapped in a seemingly endless cycle of approval and verification; outgoing invoices have backed up in the mail room again; several administrative departments, each handling basically the same paperwork, are at opposite ends of the building. Phones are ringing off the hook in the sales department, even after 5:00 p.m.; the company sales forecasts for the next quarter are late as usual; when they do come, they are rife with errors; and management is spending more time in meetings than would seem to be productive.
Assessing the FASB's responsiveness to comment letters on other postretirement benefits
Authors: Bline Dennis M. , Skekel Ted D.
Published: July 2007

The FASB has issued FAS No. 106 entitled “Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions,” after much debate and some compromise. This article examines the FASB's responsiveness to criticisms expressed in many of the respondents' comment letters regarding certain proposals included in the exposure draft that served as the basis for FAS No. 106. Nine controversial issues are analyzed. While the FASB modified or reversed its position on five of the nine issues, no clear pattern of responsiveness was discernable. Furthermore, only two of the five changed positions can be considered major: dropping the minimum liability recognition requirement and allowing immediate recognition of the transition obligation.
The 1990s: A new era of formal and informal corporate disclosure
Authors: Adair Wendell H. , Boies Wilber H. , Meadows Stanley H.
Published: July 2007

The 1990s promise to usher in a new era of formal and informal disclosure. Through the “formal” disclosure process, shareholders and institutional investors have and will continue to assume a more active role in corporate governance. Moreover, corporate management must also be wary of its increased liability for “informal” disclosure of material, nonpublic information. Now, more than ever, corporate management must be cognizant of the importance of formal and informal disclosure. This article examines both formal and informal corporate disclosures under current law.
Funding alternatives for corporate‐sponsored health benefit plans
Authors: Roberts James N.
Published: July 2007

Health benefit plan costs are becoming one of the most difficult to control costs in the United States. If U.S. businesses are to be competitive in a global economy, every aspect of plan costs should be explored and analyzed. This article specifically discusses funding alternatives with an emphasis on products that are currently available. Selecting the best approach will depend on the value of the float to the employer. The optimal solution must be modified, depending on the need for security of benefits to plan participants and the ability of the employer to accept risk. Federal income tax considerations are not discussed.
1991 SEC form 10‐K checklist
Authors: Cole Cathy
Published: July 2007

Because of the many and varied reporting requirements that are imposed on public companies, a checklist is a useful tool in complying with applicable rules and regulations. Frequently, companies will use a financial statement checklist to cover the generally accepted accounting principles, but will need an additional checklist for SEC reporting requirements. The following checklist includes accounting‐related SEC rules for the Form 10‐K. Although it generally covers only the codified SEC rules, certain common reporting problems cited recently by the SEC staff, such as on the statement of cash flows, are also addressed. The MD&A section of the checklist includes the interpretive guidance issued in Financial Reporting Release No. 36 in 1989.
Litigation management and cost control: Using outside accountants as experts
Authors: Bernstein Andrew C.
Published: July 2007

This article discusses the skills and knowledge accountants possess that make them useful in the litigation environment. Further, the article provides information concerning appropriate applications for an accountant in assisting counsel and includes certain matters that should be considered. Finally, the article provides the corporate manager with the management principles necessary for consideration in using an accountant in litigation. This discussion is intended to provide the tools needed to assist with cost control and case management objectives.
A guide to understanding Japanese corporate finance
Authors: Bush Sharon L.
Published: July 2007

This article examines some of the sociocultural differences between the United States and Japan and how they are reflected in business practices, specifically financial reporting and the interpretation of financial data. The analysis of Japanese corporate finance focuses on key earnings, liquidity, and leverage ratios to show how U.S. and Japanese interpretations of this data differ and how Japanese managers incorporate this information in their decision making.
Linking management performance incentives to shareholder wealth
Authors: O'Byrne Stephen F.
Published: July 2007

This article analyzes a typical CEO's total company‐related wealth and quantifies the performance incentive provided by a typical executive compensation program. The article shows that the performance sensitivity of the CEO's total company‐related wealth is inadequate to provide an effective incentive to maximize shareholder wealth. The article shows how the typical executive compensation program can be changed to provide an effective performance incentive.
The benefits of EDI and EFT in payment generation and cash application processes
Authors: McKenney Mary
Published: July 2007

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is becoming widely accepted as a way to improve business efficiencies. Its more recent extension, Financial EDI, is just beginning to capture attention. The benefits of EDI are too compelling to be ignored. This article examines the implications of a variety of Financial EDI alternatives and issues a call to action for corporate finance executives.
Consolidated financial statements: New FASB ground rules?
Authors: Pacter Paul
Published: July 2007

This article discusses the key issues raised in FASB's new discussion memorandum, Consolidation Policy and Procedures: (1) Should control, rather than majority ownership, be the main criterion for consolidating the financial statements of two companies? (2) If a subsidiary is less than wholly owned, should 100 percent of its fair values at acquisition date be recognized in consolidation, or only the parent's proportionate share of fair values? (3) Should goodwill attributable to the noncontrolling (minority) interest in the subsidiary be included, or only the parent's share of goodwill? (4) If majority ownership is acquired in a series of steps, should the subsidiary's assets and liabilities be measured in consolidation by recognizing separate layers of value for each individual block of stock, or should the subsidiary's assets and liabilities be measured on a single date, namely the date control is obtained? (5) If the parent increases its majority holding by buying additional shares, is another layer of value added to the subsidiary's assets and liabilities in consolidation, or is the purchase a “treasury stock” transaction ? (6) If the parent sells a portion of its holding but continues to maintain control, is a gain recognized in consolidation, or is the sale a “treasury stock” transaction? (7) Should 100 percent of any unrealized profit on intercompany transactions be eliminated in consolidation, or only the parent's percentage? (8) How should noncontrolling (minority) interest be displayed in a consolidated balance sheet? In a consolidated income statement ? (9) In consolidation, should the subsidiary's accounting policies be conformed to those of its parent?.
Early retirement incentives: What are the costs?
Authors: Friedman Kenneth L.
Published: July 2007

Early retirement window programs have become popular among companies as a means of downsizing the work force. This article explores the most popular design features of incentive offers and discusses the various accounting treatments, the legal and regulatory pitfalls, and other hazards of offering window programs. A typical methodology for analyzing the cost of the program versus the anticipated savings is also presented.
EDGAR—the SEC's solution to a tidal wave of paper
Authors: Hodgson David , Mezzio Steve
Published: July 2007

A fundamental change in the way the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) administers the full disclosure program mandated by federal securities laws and the way that filer information is disseminated to the public is underway. The catalyst for this change is EDGAR—Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval—a computer network system that enables companies to file electronically with the SEC. This shift from paper and microform systems will be a major leap forward in the way the Commission deals with the staggering volume of documents that are filed with it. This article discusses the past, present, and future of EDGAR.
Roundtable: Is FASB making the grade?
Authors: Alper Merlin L. , Peters Aulana L. , Sorter George H. , Wyatt Arthur R.
Published: July 2007

Although responsible for certain accounting standards that some of its constituents “love to hate,” the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has already outlasted its predecessor, the Accounting Principles Board, by five years. Recently FASB has faced criticism from both preparers and users of financial statements, leading many to wonder about its life expectancy. Preparers complain about standards overload, cookbook accounting, high costs of implementation, and anticompetitiveness. Regulators complain about “once upon a time accounting” or flawed standards allowing too much flexibility in application. In this context, four leading members of the accounting and business community were asked to participate in an Executive Enterprises' conference panel that assessed FASB's performance to date. Their evaluations of that performance, both positive and negative, are included in this article.
Which activities add value and which don't?
Authors: Shafer Scott M. , Collins Frank
Published: July 2007

Recognizing that it is important to be able to identify and distinguish those activities that add value from those that do not, this article focuses on developing a link between activities and the creation of value. The article begins by defining value, and then presents a classification for costs and activities. Finally, suggestions for using these categorizations are presented.
Including capital input within total productivity measurement
Authors: Stainer Alan I.
Published: July 2007

In an environment of inflationary conditions and rapid technological change, the state of the art of total productivity measurement is reviewed—focusing on the importance of capital input along with the more common materials and labor factors. The basis for capital input measurement is discussed and evaluated, including the concepts of economic, deprival, replacement, and net realizable values. The weaknesses of using historic cost are considered and a replacement cost system is elaborated with the capital input shown at base‐year prices. Examples are provided to illustrate how a more relevant measure of capital input can help improve strategic decisions based on total productivity.
Special section: Market value accounting. Pro: Market value accounting is a vital information system
Authors: White Lawrence J.
Published: July 2007

All U.S. corporations have a vital stake in the safety‐and‐soundness regulation of banks. At the heart of that regulation is the banks' accounting system. Many believe that the existing framework of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) is wholly inadequate for regulatory needs. As this article contends, it should be replaced by a market value accounting (MVA) framework for all bank assets, liabilities, and off‐balance‐sheet items. Although MVA would not be perfect, it would be aimed at the proper target and would be far superior in reporting banks' true net worths (capital) to regulators and thereby allow the latter to better stave off costly bank insolvencies.
How To estimate the value of contaminated property
Authors: Skalak Steven L. , Prendergast Patrick R. , Chalmers James A.
Published: July 2007

Public companies are under pressure to discusss and evaluate contaminated property. But how useful are classical valuation approaches? Which one is best? The author shows how to use the DCF method, which many valuation experts favor.
Preventing expensive surprises with post‐closing adjustments when buying or selling a business
Authors: Birdzell Luther E.
Published: July 2007

The price paid for a business is often adjusted after the closing, based on financial results. How can you manage this process to prevent expensive surprises?.
FAS 112: What you need to know now about accounting for postemployment benefits
Authors: Scott Diana J. , Petrone Kimberley Ryan
Published: July 2007

Up to now, employers have used a variety of methods to account for postemployment benefits. But FAS 112 changes all that. Employers now must accrue the expected cost of benefits likely to be paid.
Survey reveals what companies are doing now about environmental accounting
Authors: Surma John P. , Petracca Dean S.
Published: July 2007

Accounting for environmental costs is a complex issue. What are companies actually doing? The authors reveal what a recent Price Waterhouse survey found.
Bellsouth shifts full financials from annual report to proxy statement to engage shareholders
Authors: Henry H. C.
Published: July 2007

It's tough to both cut costs and increase readership for your company's annual report. Here's how one large company did it.
ACSEC's proposed statement of position on disclosure about risks, uncertainties, and financial flexibility— and its implications
Authors: Munter Paul
Published: July 2007

The Accounting Standards Executive Committee (AcSEC) may require many companies to expand certain disclosures in their financial statements. The author discusses the expected provisions of AcSEC's SOP and their impact.
SEC addresses goodwill write‐offs in supermarkets general; what will the FASB do?
Authors: Beier Raymond J.
Published: July 2007

New opportunities for public companies that have goodwill on their books have been created because of a recent position taken by the SEC's Office of the Chief Accountant (the SEC staff). It appears that the staff has altered its long‐held views concerning write‐offs of existing goodwill. This was based, at least in part, on the thinking that has been developed in the FASB's project on “Accounting for the Impairment of Long‐Lived Assets.”

Whether this alternative approach to consider the recoverability of an existing goodwill asset will have significant effects in the marketplace remains to be seen. However, at a minimum, it does open the door to additional possibilities for companies that might otherwise not believe they could consider writing off goodwill, particularly those that have accumulated goodwill through high‐priced acquisitions.
FASB changes reporting standards for not‐for‐profit organizations
Authors: Foster Mary F. , Shiah James E.
Published: July 2007

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has released two statements (Numbers 116 and 117) that establish standards for external financial reporting by not‐for‐profit (NFP) organizations and the way in which such organizations account for contributions made and received. These standards, which have been under development for six years, are part of a broader project to resolve certain inconsistencies in the reporting practices of NFP organizations. The new standards are effective for financial statements covering fiscal years that begin after December 15, 1994, which for most NFP organizations means their 1995‐96 fiscal years.

This article summarizes the significant provisions of the new standards, reviews changes from current practices, and considers the effect of the pronouncements on both NFPs implementing the standards and the users of the financial statements.
Rule 10B‐5: When are accountants more likely to be sued?
Authors: Hawkins Kyleen W. , Byington J. Ralph
Published: July 2007

More lawsuits were filed against accountants between 1972 and 1987 thatn in the the entire history of the accounting profession. Companies hiring the accounting firm are often drawn in as well. What red flags indicate a possible lawsuit? The authors' study sought the answers.
The fortune 500's pension costs and key reporting assumptions
Authors: Blankley Alan I. , Tang Roger
Published: July 2007

The authors studied 181 Fortune 500 companies to see how they were reporting pension costs, they then took a closer look at the size and extent of those costs and the assumptions used in reporting them.
How fraudulent financial reporting happens and what COSO advises corporate America and its auditors
Authors: Munter Paul
Published: July 2007

By its very nature, fraudulent financial reporting is difficult to detect. The increasingly complex computerized accounting systems found in most large companies, coupled with the complex schemes used to perpetrate this crime, make it even more difficult to detect.

So how can this problem be controlled? The answers to this question are as complex as the problem itself. As J. Michael Cook, the AICPA's board chairman, stated on July 22, 1987, in testimony before the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee (the Dingell hearings), “[t]here are no final answers because financial reporting serves the needs of society, and those needs are constantly changing”.

Although we will probably never eliminate all fraudulent financial reporting, definitive steps to prevent its occurrence and detect it in the early stages when it does occur will be identified in this article.
Striving for harmonization of U.S. and Mexican accounting standards
Authors: Lendez Anthony M. , Ancira Carlos L.
Published: July 2007

The standard‐setting bodies of the United States, Canada, and Mexico commissioned a joint study of the accounting and financial reporting standards in the three countries shortly after the NAFTA negotiations began. This article discusses seven significant differences between U.S. and Mexican standards identified by the study.
Employee benefit plans: How should you disclose risks and uncertainties under SOP 94‐6?
Authors: Dakdduk Kenneth E. , Akresh Murray S.
Published: July 2007

Most calendar year‐end companies will be applying SOP 94‐6, on risks and uncertainties, in their 1995 financial statements. The authors explain disclosures required for an employer's employee benefit plans.
How to profit from changes at the big six accounting firms
Authors: Ruhl Jack M. , Tang Roger Y. W.
Published: July 2007

CPA firms have adopted new strategies and practices in order to compete. But can the CFO turn them to his advantage? Yes, say the authors, who suggest how to do it.
Elliott committee update: What is the future of assurance services?
Authors: Jacobson Peter D. , Elliott Robert K.
Published: July 2007

The chairman of the AICPA Special Committee on Assurance Services reveals its thinking on the future of assurance services. Be sure to make your voice heard by filling out the special reader survey on page 73.
SEC proposes new derivatives disclosure requirements
Authors: Weirich Thomas R. , Rouse Robert W.
Published: July 2007

The SEC has proposed new guidelines for derivatives reporting.
When your auditor blows the whistle: How to deal with a 10A crisis under the new private securities litigation reform act
Authors: Rossow Mark M.
Published: July 2007

A new federal law greatly expands the scope of external auditors' investigations. That can mean big trouble. The author, an attorney, explains how CFOs should respond if an auditor blows the whistle including guidelines for forming a crisis management team.
Uneasy feeling pervades AICPA's SEC conference
Authors: Weirich Thomas R. , Rouse Robert W.
Published: July 2007

The uneasy resolution of the contentious stock option issue created an apprehensive feeling at this year's annual SEC conference.
Practical tips for writing MD&A
Authors: Krzus Michael P. , Graul Leland E. , Lenz Jeffrey W.
Published: July 2007

MD&A has received increased attention, but it is easy to overlook some of its important details. This article provides a helpful checklist to assist CFOs in avoiding potential pitfalls.
What can CFOS learn from the SEC's MD&A crackdown?
Authors: Plunkett Linda M. , Rouse Robert W.
Published: July 2007

The authors review several recent MD&A enforcement actions by the SEC. What can CFOs learn from these cases to protect their companies?.
Comprehensive income: How to apply the rules of FASB's recent exposure draft
Authors: Smith Pamela A. , Reither Cheri L.
Published: July 2007

The authors give an insider's view of FASB's recent Exposure Draft on comprehensive income. After describing the ED'sprovisions, they show the reader how to apply them to the financial data of a well‐known company to explore how the ED could affect financial results, they also examined the impact on anonymous companies from 25 different industries.
What are the reporting and disclosure risks of using independent contractors?
Authors: Mason J. David
Published: July 2007

More and more companies are using independent contractors, instead of traditional employees, to cut costs. But are they really independent contractors? Will your firm's classification of them be challenged? The answers can have big implications for financial reporting and disclosures.
Split‐dollar life insurance: Understanding the benefits and avoiding pitfalls
Authors: Daggett George D. , Bohl David J.
Published: July 2007

Split‐dollar life insurance is increasing in popularity, but accounting for it is difficult. The authors define some of the key terms involved and point out potential pitfalls in the split‐dollar approach.
A six‐step program for managing foreign exchange risk
Authors: Godwin Joseph H. , Goldberg Stephen R.
Published: July 2007

The authors review the different types and sources of accounting and economic exposures, discuss current accounting standards, and give the reader a six‐step program for managing foreign exchange risk.