bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Networked e‐information services to support the e‐learning process at UAE University
Authors: Taha Ahmed
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on how the e‐library interoperates with the e‐learning process within the academic computing environment (ACE) at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is inspired by the existing findings of a questionnaire survey conducted by the Laptop Project at the UAEU (2002‐2003) and sequel research (2004‐2005) on the acceptance and adoption of the Blackboard, a web‐based instructional platform, by the students. Personal interviews were conducted with the instructors who were involved in the e‐learning initiative to find out the appropriate e‐information services that should be provided to support their respective Blackboard‐aided courses.

Findings

The paper finds that the instructors have viewed e‐learning as a sound instructional tool and an evolving genre capable of providing more than just textual information. According to their viewpoints, the e‐library could support e‐learning courses with a bundle of networked e‐information services such as development of course‐related electronic collections, virtual reference help, current awareness and SDI, online document delivery, etc. E‐literacy was found to play an essential role in fostering adoption and acceptance of e‐learning, whereas the language barrier has constrained e‐learning initiative in the colleges where Arabic is the teaching language, i.e. Blackboard does not support creation of Arabic contents and interface so far.

Practical implications

The capabilities of the e‐library in providing networked e‐information services have made the integration with the e‐learning process a highly urgent requirement.

Originality/value

A model representing the integration of the e‐library functions with the e‐learning process is presented in the paper. The proposed model could be applicable in learning settings within an academic computing environment.
Package deals unwrapped … or the librarian wrapped up? “Forced acquisition” in the digital library
Authors: Hellriegel Patricia , Van Wonterghem Kaat
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper sets out to give an overview of the history of electronic journal package deals in Flanders and the role of consortia. The influence of package deals on libraries' budget, collection management and their role in the advancing monopolization of the information market are highlighted. The article also seeks to clariy why package deals were so attractive in the beginning but turned into a poisoned chalice for many. As an illustration of why it is so hard to get out of a deal, an average package deal license agreement is described.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses personal experience and views supported with background literature.

Findings

The article advocates better co‐operation between libraries and directed communication with the scholarly community which hold the key to making alternatives work.

Originality/value

A resource for those not (completely) familiar with package deals and their wide influence. The available alternatives and the remaining obstacles are described.
A response to Bernard Naylor’s opinion paper
Authors: Oppenheim Charles
Published: June 2007

Addresses the proposals
regarding payment by users for electronic access to published
material, put forward in the opinion paper titled “Paying for
scholarly communication: the future as a guide to the past”.
Warns that this paper argues against the continuing tenability, in an
electronic environment, of the current legal exceptions to copyright,
namely “fair dealing” and the so‐called library
exemptions, suggesting instead that, in return for explicit rights
from publishers, the existing rights of individuals and libraries
conferred by these two exceptions should be lost. Rejects as
unacceptable any such change to existing UK copyright law.
A wavelet‐integration‐free periodic wavelet Galerkin BEM for 2D potential problems
Authors: Xiao Jin‐you , Wen Li‐hua , Zhang Duo
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present a wavelet Galerkin boundary element method (WGBEM) for solving 2D Laplace's equation in which the coefficient matrices are exactly computed through fast Fourier transform (FFT).

Design/methodology/approach

When Daubechies periodized wavelets are used to approximate smooth functions the wavelet coefficients can be exactly computed through FFT, and numerical evaluation of wavelet integrations is discarded. The same methods for computing the expansion coefficients of 2D function and singular function are derived.

Findings

For Daubechies periodized wavelets based WGBEM, two remarkable advantages over the existing WGBEM are: the coefficient matrices can be exactly calculated through FFT; a linear system with potential and flux values at dyadic points as unknowns can be gained. Thus, the mixed boundary condition can be enforced with ease. Sparse matrices with only O(N log N) nonzero entries are obtained by performing the fast wavelet transform (FWT) and the truncation of matrix entries.

Originality/value

A wavelet‐integration‐free method for computing the wavelet coefficients is introduced into the WGBEM. The conventional numerical evaluation of wavelet integrations is avoided. Good performance and accuracy are obtained.
An empirical study of the motives and benefits of ISO 9000 certification: the UAE experience
Authors: Zaramdini Walid
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to analyze the different aspects of the motives and benefits of certified ISO 9001: 2000 companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 900 certified UAE companies were surveyed in April 2004 in UAE. The response rate was equal to 23.2 percent.

Findings

The paper finds that certified companies were more concerned by internal reasons like improving processes or products than by external reasons like pressure from customers or imitation of competitors. In addition, the certification process had generated more internal benefits than external ones.

Research limitations/implications

These findings may indicate that the surveyed firms will sustain their quality efforts as continuous improvement is one of the cornerstones of ISO 9001: 2000 standard. In April 2004, when this survey was conducted, the number of certified companies listed in Dubai or in Abu Dhabi Stock Exchanges was still small. This limited the analysis of the certification's financial benefits.

Originality/value

This is one of the first papers trying to analyze the motives and benefits of ISO 9001: 2000 certified companies in the UAE. The selection of the motives and benefits were validated through statistical analysis and the relationship between expected and perceived benefits was discussed.
Total quality management and performance
Authors: Joiner Therese A.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the extent of total quality management (TQM) implementation and organization performance, and the moderating effect of co‐worker support and organization support on the TQM/performance relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was developed and distributed to a sample of firms selected from the motor vehicle parts and accessories industry.

Findings

Analysis of the data supports a strong positive relationship between the extent of implementation of TQM practices and organization performance. This study also found that co‐worker support and organization support moderated the relationship between TQM implementation and organization performance

Research implications

This study has important implications for managers. First, it motivates managers (and provides a justification) to invest in the time and resources to implement TQM programs. Based on the results of this study, the implementation of TQM practices is associated with enhanced organization performance. Second, evidence from this study signals the importance of developing an environment or “culture” of support to further enhance the performance outcomes of TQM implementation. If employees do not feel there is acknowledgement and support from the organization and from work colleagues, then the implementation of TQM programs may be sub‐optimal.

Originality/value

There is increasing recognition of the importance of human factors in successful TQM implementation. Within this context, no previous research has empirically examined the synergistic moderating effect of co‐worker support and organization support on the relationship between TQM and performance.
Google in China: government censorship and corporate reputation
Authors: O'Rourke James S. , Harris Brynn , Ogilvy Allison
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper examines the communication strategies organization, and tactics of Google as corporate executives and staff planned and began executing the company's global expansion strategy with entry into the Chinese market.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a case study.

Findings

To do business in the Chinese market, Google had to comply with Chinese Government censorship restrictions. The company's decision to do so was announced in the wake of Google's very recent refusal to provide user information to the US Government case against child pornography. Wall Street's response confirmed the profit potential of the venture, as the company's share price rose 3.6 percent in just one day, and continued rising to record heights. However, the company's announcement brought strong reaction from the press and human rights organizations. Within days, headlines were screaming across the USA and around the world, accusing Google of abandoning its principles in pursuit of profit.

Originality/value

Mass media in the USA and throughout the developed world heaped scorn and criticism on Google for its decision to censor searches from its servers inside China. Various NGOs took up the drumbeat of criticism, implying that Google could not be trusted with personal data, including search topics. At the same time, however, Wall Street continued to reward the company with a seemingly endless streak of record share price postings. The question appears simple: does the pursuit of profit in the developing world trump the need for ethics and values in business operations?
Key skills through collaboration: a Library and Information Services and Business, Management and Leisure partnership
Authors: Hilliger Karen , Roberts Sue
Published: June 2007

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills are crucial to the development of graduate skills and employability. This paper will explore the research undertaken at Edge Hill College of Higher Education to integrate and contextualise ICT skills within an undergraduate marketing programme, with the research and curriculum implementation undertaken through collaboration between Library and Information Services (LIS) and the subject area of Business, Management and Leisure (BML).
The advantages of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability
Authors: Li Fang Jing , Chan Daniel K.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This study seeks to examine the advantages of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability in order to combat the shortcomings of acidity in some popular immersion silver solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes in detail the necessary steps in the mildly alkaline immersion silver process.

Findings

The process can overcome the problems of conventional acidic immersion silvers, especially in thermal shock and stress testing. Also it does not affect soldering or aluminium wire bonding.

Originality/value

This is arguably a pioneering study in that it posits the benefits of mildly alkaline immersion silver as a final finish for solderability.
Laser Recording of Circuit Structures from Conducting Polymers in Insulating Polymer
Layers
Authors: Roth H.‐K. , Eidner K. , Roth H.
Published: June 2007

The paper is a report on a newly developed material
and on technological studies which open up new methods for the combined application of laser and
computer technology for advanced industrial applications, e.g., for the laser direct imaging of
conducting paths, circuit structures in printed circuit boards and probably also in moulded
interconnection devices. The process uses — instead of copper and
photoresists — layers of a special polymer poly(bis‐alkylthio‐acetylene),
PATAC, in which leads or conducting organic structures will be written by laser‐induced local
conversion of PATAC into conductive polymer tracks. The organic leads obtained can be reinforced
by electroplating if necessary. It is a purely additive process, which works without etching, thus
avoiding environmental problems. The new material and technology also allow the direct imaging of
resistors, capacitors and inductors on to printed circuit boards and make it possible to make chips and
other electronic components conductive. It enables the production of leads in the 10 μm scale and
for this reason is suitable for hybrid technology. The new technology is not restricted to one plane and
can, therefore, also be used for 3‐D boards or MIDs.
The Contamination Audit ‐ A Vital Tool For Yield Improvement
Authors: Hamilton S.
Published: June 2007

With the increasing trends towards fineline circuitry,
contamination has become a major cause of defects. This paper outlines the techniques used in
conducting a Contamination Audit and in generating a Contamination Matrix, which is a map of the
types of contamination and their relative levels within a facility. Using the Contamination Matrix
contamination control measures can be targetted in the most effective manner to achieve yield
improvements.
Effect of Chip Dimension and Substrate Thickness on the Solder Joint
Reliability of Plastic Ball Grid Array Packages
Authors: Lee S.‐W. , Lau J.H.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents a non‐linear numerical study to investigate the effect
of chip dimension and substrate thickness on the solder joint reliability of plastic ball grid array
(PBGA) packages. The package under investigation was a 225‐pin
full‐grid PBGA assembly. The diagonal cross‐section of the PBGA together
with the printed circuit board (PCB) was modelled by plane‐strain elements.
A uniform thermal loading was applied and the solder joints were stressed due to the mismatch
of coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and constructions of the PCB assembly.
The effective stress and accumulated plastic strain of solder balls against various chip
dimensions and substrate thicknesses were evaluated as an index for the reliability of solder
joints. The results of this study are helpful for electronics packaging engineers to optimise the
geometry of plastic ball grid array packages.
A global perspective on the use of derivatives for corporate risk management decisions
Authors: Jalilvand Abolhassan , Switzer Jeannette , Tang Caroline
Published: June 2007

Notes the “spectacular” growth of derivatives over the last 20 years and reviews previous research on the risk management policies and practices of corporations. Reports a survey of leading, non‐financial Canadian firms and compares it with previous studies. Shows the differences between respondents using/not using derivatives, the proportions of different types of treasury organization, the importance attached to treasury benchmarking and the integration of risk management policy with strategic plans. Finds that Canada uses derivatives more than Europe or the USA; that most Canadian and European treasuries operate as cost or service centres but are not benchmarked; that although most Canadian and European companies have written risk management policies, these are not integrated with financial/operating plans; that US risk managers are more likely to take positions reflecting their market views; and that in all the countries covered derivative users are larger than non‐users. Believes that most risk management programmes “remain in an introductory stage”.
Financing, dividend and compensation policies subsequent to a shift in the investment opportunity set
Authors: Abbott Lawrence J.
Published: June 2007

Summarizes previous research on the impact of the investment opportunity set (IOS) on firm financing, dividend and compensation policies, develops hypotheses on the effects of IOS changes on these three areas and tests them using 1980‐1989 data from a sample of US firms moving high and low IOS rankings (and vice versa) plus a control (stable) group. Explains the sample selection method and shows that most declining IOS firms were small, high‐tech firms; firms dealing in food and consumer products showed increasing IOS; and control firms were mostly from capital intensive industries. Finds that rising IOS firms generally reduced their dividends and market debt‐to‐equity ratio. Adds that all three groups increased their use of stock option plans but this was only significant for the IOS rising firms. Briefly comments on the underlying reasons for the findings and their implications for further research.
The role of cash flow information in predicting corporate failure: the state of the literature
Authors: Sharma Divesh S.
Published: June 2007

Provides a comprehensive, critical review of failure prediction with cash flow information since Beaver (1966); and tabulates the methods and cash flow variables used, and the results produced. Describes the literature as “inconsistent and inconclusive” and discusses possible reasons why, e.g. the measurement and diversity of cash flows, lack of model validation, multicollinearity etc. Points out the importance of cash to solvency and dividend payouts; and the limitations it places on creative accounting. Summarizes the reasons for previous inconsistencies and considers possibilities for further research.
Outcome effects and capacity cost reporting
Authors: Buchheit Steve , Richardson Bob
Published: June 2007

Lists research evidence that organizations are often unaware of underutilized capacity resources and examines the implications of explicit unused capacity reporting which identifies the cost of unused capacity, pointing out that although this information is useful, it may increase evaluator outcome effects. Describes an experiment to test this and shows that where unused capacity is reported biased performance evaluation results; and individual decision makers may inappropriately reduce capacity or increase production to avoid negative evaluations. Considers how management accountants can mitigate this effect, recognizes the limitations of the study and calls for further research.
Capacity planning using Monte Carlo simulation: an illustrative application of commonly available PC software
Authors: Helio Yang Y. , Haddad Kamal , Chow Chee W.
Published: June 2007

Reviews the literature on capacity planning at strategic, tactical and operational levels but points out that, in practice, many enterprise resource planning systems make unrealistic assumptions for production planning; and the advanced production software packages which can deal with uncertainty are both complex and expensive. Uses a theoretical company to demonstrate how a normal Excel spreadsheet can be used in conjunction with a common add‐on package (@RISK) to improve analysis and run Monte Carlo simulations as a basis for decision making. Compares the results produced with standard spreadsheet analysis and discusses the additional financial and operational insights they provide into the implications of different capacity levels under conditions of uncertainty. Warns that the validity of the simulation depends on the quality of the data and model; and that human judgement is still required to actually make a decision.
The European Central Bank: the search for credibility
Authors: Rabiul Hasan M. , Severiens Jacobus T.
Published: June 2007

Assesses the effectiveness of the European Central Bank in maintaining price stability, growth and bank liquidity across the eurozone. Looks at the policies which it has applied in response to economic events, suggesting that its treatment of the falling euro value has eroded its credibility and that it is “struggling” to provide the banks with liquidity. Criticizes the speed and adequacy of its statistical information, the consensual style of managing its policy‐makers and the lack of transparency in its proceedings.
Explaining the behaviour of stock prices in an emerging market: an empirical analysis of the Greek stock market
Authors: Dockery E. , Vergari D. , Vergari F.
Published: June 2007

Outlines research on the factors which reduce stock market efficiency and the particular characteristics of the Athens stock exchange (Greece). Uses 1988‐1994 Greek monthly returns data for share actively traded during the period to test for random walk behaviour in share prices. Explains the methodology, which is based on Lo and Mckinlay’s (1988) variance ratio test procedure and Robinson’s (1991) test for fractional integration; and presents the results which support the random walk hypothesis, i.e. suggest weak‐form efficiency. Notes inconsistency with some previous research on the Athens stock exchange and other emerging stock markets, but consistent with the idea that recent institutional changes have succeeded in increasing efficiency.
A behavioral analysis of interest rates in Euro area
Authors: Sfakianakis Michael E.
Published: June 2007

Analyses the structural behaviour of money and capital market interest rates 1999‐2001 in the European Monetary Union. Finds that the positive correlations between interest rates of different time periods get stronger as the time periods get closer, derives the principal components which explain most of the variability and applies time series analysis to the model to produce forecasts which come very close to actual values. Develops a model of the Down Jones EURO STOXX financial sector index which also shows reliable forecasting power except for the Feb 2001 period when stock markets were “in turmoil”. Compares the returns for one‐month holdings of zero‐coupon European government bonds with different maturities for various return, risk and risk‐return measures; and finds that a one‐month holding of a two‐year bond is the best investment.
Macroeconomic determinants of personal bankruptcies
Authors: Hussain Iftikhar
Published: June 2007

Outlines trends in UK personal bankruptcies and relevant research; and explores the reasons for their dramatic rise since 1990. Explains the process of econometric analysis used to interpet the statistics and presents the results, which support the argument that higher indebtedness leads to more bankruptcies, either through higher gearing or declining credit standards. Finds that both unemployment and real disposable income affect the bankruptcies ratio in the short run, but the effect of interest rates is smaller. Briefly considers the implications of the findings.
The early attraction of S&P index funds: is perfect tracking performance an illusion?
Authors: Cresson John E. , Mike Cudd R. , Lipscomb Tom J.
Published: June 2007

Notes the popularity of index funds with US investors, refers to research on fund performance compared with indexes and presents a study comparing daily returns of S&P 500 index funds with the index itself. Explains the methodology and presents the results, which show that the funds “fall well short” of tracking the index efficiently; although larger funds and/or those with longer term managers have a better tracking performance. Considers consistency with other research and the implications of the findings.
A comparative study of the cost efficiency of Italian bank conglomerates
Authors: Casu Barbara , Girardone Claudia
Published: June 2007

Outlines previous research on the efficiency of the Italian banking system, describes the structure of Italian banking groups and uses parametric (stochastic cost frontier) and non‐parametric (data envelopment analysis) approaches to assess the efficiency of Italian bank conglomerates in 1995 compared with the parent companies and subsidiearies. Explains the methodology and presents the results, which suggest that parent companies and subsidiaries are more efficient than groups and that efficiency is not related to size. Analyses efficiencies of scale and scope to show that bank groups gain more economies of scope than parents or subsidiaries; but finds mixed results for economies of scale.
Macroeconomic factors and stock prices in the emerging Cypriot equity market
Authors: Tsoukalas Dimitrios
Published: June 2007

This study examines the relationships between macroeconomic factors and stock prices in Cyprus. Estimating a reduced form Vector Autoregressive model (VAR) we determine Granger causality between stock returns and the predictor variables. We find strong evidence of predictability (which implies inefficiency) in stock returns, which is similar to the pattern observed in developed stock markets. In common with prior studies in this area, we cannot use our results as evidence of market inefficiency or deficiencies in the asset‐pricing model.
Malaysian post merger banks’ productivity: application of Malmquist productivity index
Authors: Krishnasamy Geeta , Hanuum Ridzwa Alfieya , Perumal Vignesen
Published: June 2007

The nature and extent of productivity change of ten commercial banks in Malaysia is analysed over the period 2000‐2001. Utilising non‐parametric methodology, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Malmquist total factor productivity index (MPI), individual bank efficiency and productivity changes which took place within this period is estimated. The MPI calculated within the framework of DEA further decompose productivity growth into technical efficiency change and technological change. The results from this analysis indicate that total factor productivity increased in all eight banks except for EON, which remain the same while PBB, recorded a decrease in productivity. AFB recorded the highest growth in total factor productivity. The growth in productivity is attributed to technological change rather than technical efficiency change.
Liquidity, solvency and cash flow simulation models in non‐life insurance companies: the Italian experience
Authors: Colombini Fabiano , Ceccarelli Simone
Published: June 2007

This paper discusses dynamic financial approaches to solvency analysis in non‐life insurance companies by explaining cash flow simulation models which are based on the planning of their typical cash inflows and outflows. Posits that these models take into account patterns of loss reserve run‐offs and asset cash flows by implementing several hypotheses that also include expectations about external economic conditions such as inflation rates and interest rates. Acknowledges the cash inflows and outflows have been planned over a period of time to evaluate how positive net cash flow (liquidity) leads to the increase in assets over liabilities (solvency).
Performance measurement in governmental organizations: a contingent approach to measurement and management control
Authors: Pieter Jansen E.
Published: June 2007

In many countries, governmental organizations decentralized their organization structures, leading to an increased relevance of performance information. This paper identifies two approaches to measure performance in the not‐for‐profit sector: an output‐focused
and a throughput‐focused approach. Furthermore, the paper sets a contingency framework concerning the applicability of these two approaches. The two most important contingent variables, i.e., whether output can be identified and whether activities are repetitive, determine the possibilities to apply the two approaches. If it is possible to apply both approaches, the ambiguity of organizational objectives, the hierarchical position of information users and the relevance of efficiency and quality are additional contingent variables that influence the approach to assess performance. Finally, the paper identifies how the approach to measure performance relates to management control types. If none of the two approaches is applicable, the organization has to rely on a management control type without an explicit system to measure performance, i.e., political or judgmental control. Routine or trial‐and‐error control fit with both approaches to measure performance. Expert and intuitive control are control types that rely on output‐based approaches to measure performance.
The effect of debt for equity swaps when equity is valued as an option
Authors: Steven Graham A.
Published: June 2007

Several researchers have found that the value of stock declines at the announcement of a debt for equity swap. This decline is attributed to an information effect: the firm’s financial condition is worse than the market expected. Our research develops an alternative explanation. Using the theory that equity can be valued as an option on the firm, it is shown that, depending on the exchange ratio, a debt for equity swap will cause the price of the stock to decline. This theory is tested using a sample of firms that announced debt for common equity swaps. The theoretically predicted stock price reactions are consistent with the actually observed stock price reactions. Furthermore, the contingent claims model has better explanatory power than a simple model of dilution. Tests on the sensitivity to the assumptions of the option pricing model show that only the assumption of the time to expiration of the option significantly affects the results.
Active international mutual fund management; can managers neat the index?
Authors: Fortin Rich , Michelson Stuart
Published: June 2007

We examine the benefits of active international mutual fund management. Is there an advantage to active fund management over investing in index funds? Previous research has found that for domestic funds, active fund management can not outperform index funds. But there has been no clear conclusion as to active international mutual fund management. We utilize Morningstar Mutual Fund data to analyze five international mutual fund categories, and overall, for a sample of 831 funds with 4,835 annual return data points. We find the difference in mean return (index minus fund return) is negative for all fund categories, except for Europe funds. The difference is significant overall and for four of the five fund categories. The results from the multivariate regression show no relationship between total return and expense ratio, but there is a significant positive relationship between total return and turnover, and a significant positive relationship between total return and fund size (LN net assets). As opposed to domestic mutual funds, it appears to be beneficial to select actively managed international mutual funds over index funds.
Tax services implications of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act of 2002
Authors: Sage Lloyd G. , Sage Judith A.
Published: June 2007

Implications of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act of 2002 for the rendering of tax services by registered public accounting firms are discussed. Certain tax services performed for an audit client that might impair the independence of the audit firm are investigated. Disclosure requirements for tax service fees are presented. Also presented are potential conflict of interest situations for tax partners. In addition, international implications for tax and legal services are described.
Credit Unions and Demutualisation
Authors: Davis Kevin
Published: June 2007

This paper reviews experience with credit union demutualisation to date in the light of increasing discussion about whether demutualisation is a likely (or inevitable) future stage in the evolutionary process. It is argued that the credit union industry faces an inherent demutualisation bias which emerges as the sector develops maturity. Contributing factors include the emergence of professional management pursuing personal objectives, together with the economic realities of technological change, financial liberalisation, increased competition, and prudential regulation based on minimum capital requirements. Demutualisation incentives may partially reflect the unsuitability of the mutual form of governance in larger, more sophisticated financial institutions, but there is also a significant risk of demutualisation based on wealth expropriation motives. Alternative policies and strategies which might avoid this demutualisation bias are examined.
The CEO pay‐performance relationship: pooled vs. industry models
Authors: Hogan Stephen , Sigler Kevin
Published: June 2007

Summarizes previous research on the links between chief executive officer (CEO) compensation, firm performance and industry; and compares pay‐performance relationships calculated by pooling data with those based on industry segmentation. Develops a model incorporating six factors which may affect CEO cash compensation (tenure, net company income, income variance, net sales, returns to shareholders and beta) and uses 1986‐1992 data from a sample of large US firms covering eight industries to test it. Shows, using Andrew’s Sine Technique regression, that there is a wide variation between individual industries which is obscured when data is pooled. Discusses the methodology used, consistency with other research, the limitations of the study and the underlying reasons for the findings.
Do financial analysts decompose past earnings when making future earnings forecasts?
Authors: Bannister James W. , Newman Harry A.
Published: June 2007

Explains why financial analysts could find it useful to separate past earnings into discretionary accruals and earnings before discretionary accruals; referring to related research to develop hypotheses on the effects of both on the change in analysts’ earnings forecasts for the subsequent year. Tests these on a sample of 142 US manufacturing firms and presents the results which suggest that analysts do not decompose past earnings. Discusses three possible interpretations of the results and supports Sloan’s (1996) finding that the capital market does not seem to price accruals rationally.
Large retail time deposits and US Treasury securities (1986‐95): evidence of a segmenting market
Authors: Gilkeson James H. , Porter Gary E.
Published: June 2007

Argues that the similarities between US treasury securities (treasuries) and FDIC‐insured large retail certificates of deposit (CDs) should make their prices similar in an efficient market. Considers deposit pricing and substitutability between treasuries and CDs, citing previous research; and presents a study comparing their yields for three maturities using 1986‐1995 data. Presents the results and analyses further to explore the links between changes in treasury yields and lagged changes in CD yields; and upward CD yield stickiness. Finds that CD and treasury yield spreads changed from small and positive to large and negative over the period with little effect on deposit balances; and concludes that those investors who remained interested in insured balances during the early 1990s were either insensitive to interest rates or had high switching costs. Suggests that banks have used this unwillingness to migrate to non‐insured funds to decrease CD rates relative to treasuries for higher profits and asks how long this market segment will continue to accept inferior yields.
Usefulness of value added reporting: a review and synthesis of the literature
Authors: Evraert Serge , Riahi‐Belkaoui Ahmed
Published: June 2007

Provides a useful summary of research on value added (VA) reporting and shows how income statements can be rearranged to show gross or not (of depreciation) VA. Starts with descriptive research on its use in various countries, enumerates its advantages and limitations and goes on to review empirical research on VA firm performance, the informational content of VA (as against conventional) data in market valuation and its predictive ability. Suggests that VA disclosure should be mandatory in the USA and calls for further research on its usefulness.
A capital budgeting stochastic simulation model applied in the banking industry
Authors: Artikis Panayiotis G.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the reasons for using stochastic simulation rather than other methods for this development of a capital budgeting model to quantify the risk and uncertainty connected with establishing a new bank branch. Uses net present value (NPV) and the internal rate of return (IRR) as the profit criteria, explains the variables included in the model, expresses them as mathematical equations and determines probability distributions for those which are random. Compares the results of 5,000 iterations of the simulation for NPV/IRR values and with the evaluation criteria used by the sample bank. Shows that the model gives a better indication of the risk involved in the project.
The substitution of net value added for earnings in equity valuation
Authors: Riahi‐Belkaoui Ahmed , Picur Ronald D.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the valuation models of Ohlson (1995) and Feltham and Ohlson (1995), which relate share prices to accounting data, and develops a version which substitutes net value added for earnings. Tests it on 1978‐1995 US data and shows that it is better than the conventional model at explaining price. Recommends that future capital market research should consider net value added as an alternative to earnings for wealth measurement.
The state and the market, their functions and failures in the history of economic development thought
Authors: Hosseini Hamid
Published: June 2007

Outlines the ideas incorporated in “development economics” and criticizes the lack of distinction made by some writers between development and economic growth. Asks whether underdeveloped countries really need a different economic theory from Western Europe and suggests that growth (in gross national product) and development (i.e. structural change) are actually complementary processes. Reviews various theories on the causes of underdevelopment (e.g. market failure, government failure) and strategies to cure it (e.g. government intervention, private initiative, market mechanism); and cites some examples of successful positive intervention.
A statistical look at judicial decisions concerning employment law
Authors: Cicmanec Andrew , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the role of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and looks at the nature and number of charges which they file on behalf of the employee. Covers race, sexual harassment, religion, age, disability, pay equality and retaliation claims. Outlines the position of Civil litigation in the US, providing statistics for comparison. Gives some recommendation to help employer avoid claims and concludes that changes in culture are required to avoid the increasing number of allegations.
The charter of fundamental rights of the European Union: Pandora’s box or panacea?
Authors: Ryland Diane
Published: June 2007

Aims to trace the legal bases for the protection of fundamental rights in the European Community and the European Union, but looks here at internal policy only. Though there was no basis in the Treaty of Rome (1957) for human rights, the European Court of Justice has declared that fundamental human rights are enshrined in the general principles of Community law and thereby protected by the Court. Investigates the Charter, in full, herein
Harmonisation of Turkish law with EU’s regulations in respect of equal treatment
Authors: Dogan Yenisey Kübra
Published: June 2007

The contin uous expansion of European discrimination law reveals its importance also in the harmonisation process. By new Labour Act No. 4857, anti‐discrimination law is inserted as a new chapter to Turkish labour law. The prohibition of discrimination on the ground of sex is regulated on the model of the 1976 Equal Treatment Directive. In respect of discrimination on the grounds of racial and ethnic origin, religion or belief, age, disability and sexual orientation, a general provision prohibiting discrimination is enacted. Up to date, these rules have not found a note worthy jurisprudential application.
Setting the Research and Teaching Agenda of Transatlantic Security Studies: Some Notes on Multi‐track Diplomacy and International Intervention
Authors: Grozev Kostadin , Boyadjiev Nadia
Published: June 2007

The theme of this conference is an appropriate place to speak about issues of methodology, research and teaching and thus to define and elaborate different approaches and viewpoints to social sciences. The academic discourse in the humanities af ter the end of the Cold War provokes efforts forinter disciplinary explanations of present‐day realities as well as transnational, cross‐cultural and transcontinental subject areas that should provide better academic co‐operation and widening of research perspectives.
Optimal structures for social systems
Authors: Schwaninger Markus
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to propose an innovative approach to the assessment of the effectiveness of organizational structures.

Design/methodology/approach

Explores a concept for the measurement of the fractal dimensionality of living organisms, applying it from biology to social organizations.

Findings

The fractal dimensionality of an organization normally lies in the range of 2.2‐2.3, if it is optimal.

Research limitations/implications

The paper's limitations lie in the fact that it is not yet based on experimental evidence from real‐world organizations.

Originality/value

The findings of this paper give valuable impetus to the methodology of organizing.
Beyond hierarchy: a complexity management perspective
Authors: Espinosa A. , Harnden R. , Walker J.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to current research on complexity management by re‐visiting Beer's paradigm on control and self‐organization and explaining its usefulness to support non‐hierarchical organizations and networks and its complementarities to new development in complexity sciences.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains the current crisis of hierarchical structures and then summarises new proposals on non‐hierarchical organizations from the perspective of complexity sciences. It then summarises Beer's provenance of control and, in particular, the ideas of requisite variety and meta‐systemic management. It explains how these ideas transform the way of approaching management and presents examples of real‐life businesses transformed by following this approach.

Findings

The analysis highlights limitations in current management theory and practice that can be overcome by embracing the paradigm of control suggested by some of the pioneer cybernetitians. It shows that the model has unprecedented powers to describe and analyse the network characteristics of contemporary social organizations from the perspective of effective management and lays down a new and democratic paradigm of control.

Research limitations/implications

This paper concentrates on explaining the main arguments of meta‐systemic management suggested originally by Beer and exploring its implications for managing complex networked organizations; more applied research would be convenient to experiment the suggested model.

Originality/value

This study hopefully has shown that core ideas from the tradition of cybernetics add diagnostic and design power to the other tools of complexity management, giving rise to new insights into how learning, networked structures can be brought to reality.
Technology learning systems as non‐trivial machines
Authors: Wene Clas‐Otto
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Considering the technology learning system as a non‐trivial machine, this paper seeks to take a first step to ground experience and learning curves in cybernetic theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Assuming operational closure, feedback regulation and a constant elasticity of output/input ratio to cumulative output makes it possible to calculate eigenvalues for the self‐reflecting loop in the learning system.

Findings

The results imply a zero mode learning rate of 20 per cent with higher modes providing learning rates smaller than 8 per cent. The results reproduce the grand features of technology learning.

Research limitations/implications

The NTM approach provides basis for work to understand improvements in grafted technologies and effects on learning from radical innovations.

Practical implications

Further inquiries into the learning system need complementary organisational analysis.

Originality/value

Based on the theory of the non‐trivial machine, this paper takes the first step to ground the experience and learning curves in cybernetic theory.
Internet commentary
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: June 2007

Comments on the Internet, giving details of new facilities and provisions that are of specific interest to systemists and cyberneticians.
The effects of risk disclosure and ad involvement on consumers in DTC advertising
Authors: Kavadas Constantina , Prevel Katsanis Lea , LeBel Jordan
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The importance of consumer involvement is well recognized in marketing theory, but has been absent from past inquiries in consumers' processing of DTC advertisements. The authors believe it is necessary to account for varying levels of involvement between consumers in order to better appreciate their responses to DTC advertisement claims. The present study aims to shed additional insight into the relationship between consumer involvement and the processing of risk information in DTC advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was a between‐subject factorial design and consisted of 156 students from a North American university. It used an instructional manipulation designed to compare how low and highly involved consumers perceive DTC drug advertisements and more specifically the benefit and risk information contained in such advertisements.

Findings

Findings indicate that consumers' perception and processing of DTC advertisements resembles consumers' reaction to fear appeals. Furthermore, consistent with previous studies, consumers react negatively to DTC advertisements containing a high content of risk information. Findings indicate that greater differences in consumer processing of risk information is observed when the sample is categorized as high versus low involved, rather than sufferer versus non‐sufferer, and that this consumer characteristic is important enough to include when examining consumer reactions to DTC advertisements.

Originality/value

The relationship between amount of risk information and consumer responses has not been empirically examined while controlling for the potential role of involvement. This study is a first step in addressing this gap.
Exploring the dynamics of customer value in cross‐cultural business relationships
Authors: Blocker Christopher P. , Flint Daniel J.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

A recent development in customer value research is building theory that can help the field go beyond understanding what customers currently value to exploring how customers' perceptions of value change. This paper seeks to extend this emerging theory of customer value change to a global context by conceptually exploring the role of national culture as a key moderator of this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature examining the role of national culture in business is reviewed for insights pertaining to buyers' tendencies for change in general and for clues suggesting how customers' embedded values in various cultural contexts might undergo value change in systematically different ways. Specifically, this paper employs Hofstede's cultural framework to explore how the lens of national culture might influence the value change process.

Findings

Based on this integrative review, several links between the cultural dimensions in Hofstede's framework and value change theory are found to be supported by the literature. These connections suggest a moderating role for national culture, given the tendency for cultural factors to shape buyers' interpretation of environmental change drivers and their resulting feelings of tension which research shows are closely associated with customers' desired value changes from suppliers.

Originality/value

This paper offers several theoretical propositions and conceptual models for future empirical validation. These new insights into an emerging theory of customer value change can provide the building‐blocks for a number of future research directions designed to help managers exercise strategic foresight for changing global markets.