bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion of landscaping services in organizations: a two nation study of determinant factors
Authors: Oly Ndubisi Nelson , Chukwunonso Nnaemeka C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Environmentalists, researchers, policy makers, governments, and the general public have frequently expressed the concern for the depleting state of the environment. As a panacea, many governments have called on organizations and individuals to pay greater interest in landscaping and embark on landscaping projects through planting trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses in their immediate and distant environments. Through landscaping, the greenery, beauty, and scenic architecture of a place are preserved. This research, therefore, aims to evaluate landscaping adoption and adoption determinants by Malaysian and Nigerian organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of organizational buying behavior and the innovation diffusion theory, a list of potential facilitators of landscaping adoption was derived and used as the basis for collecting data from the organizations. These data were factor analyzed to determine the key dimensions of facilitators for landscaping adoption. On the basis of the resulting dimensions, discriminant analysis was conducted to identify the factors that are sufficient in discriminating between the organizations that have adopted landscaping (adopters) and those that have not done so (non‐adopters).

Findings

The results show that organizational factors such as environmental sensitivity of the firm, organization's size, organization's people, and cost implication, as well as innovation characteristics, namely relative advantage, compatibility, and complexity, are significantly sufficient for discriminating between adopters and non‐adopters. An organization's structure and divisibility are not significant determinants.

Practical implications

The finding of this research is beneficial in designing strategies for the protection and enhancement of the greenery and beauty of the environment, and for overall environmental management.

Originality/value

The outcome of this research provides valuable pioneer information on factors that discriminate between organizational adopters and non‐adopters of landscaping in Malaysia and Nigeria that can be used to enhance landscaping diffusion and overall environmental management.
An assessment of the cogenerated electrical energy potential for Lithuania
Authors: Kliucininkas Linas , Zieniute Ina , Mockuviene Jolita
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To analyze the structural changes in electrical energy production sector caused by rapidly growing economy and Lithuania's international environmental commitments to the EU and international organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study estimates the environmental‐financial aspects of cogeneration system to be implemented at the boiler house. After quantitative estimation of the electric energy demands the financial comparison of long and mid‐term environmental measures is presented.

Findings

The study responds to European strategy towards doubling the amount of cogenerated electrical power and provides financial‐environmental estimates of cogeneration installations.

Research limitations/implications

Installation and maintenance of co‐generation system requires high investments, however, in a long‐term perspective it would result in a substantial environmental and financial effect.

Practical implications

The proposed scheme could be adjusted to the local conditions of the individual country as one of energy production options to bring about a sustainable energy future.

Originality/value

The analyzed quantitative assessment of national cogenerated energy potential serves as a tool for implementation of sustainable energy production in practice.
Strategies for controlling mobile emissions in Cairo
Authors: El Mowafi Samir A. , Gamal Atalla Ahmed
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the potential sustainable transportation strategies for Cairo in terms of their impact on emissions over the next ten years. The considered strategies include using cleaner fuel, implementing inspection and maintenance programs and adopting emission standards for new vehicles.

Design/methodology/approach

The strategies were evaluated in terms of the expected reductions of particulate matter (PM) and ozone precursors due to the future implementation. Emissions were estimated utilizing a mix of the relevant national and international. Accordingly, a three‐phase integrated strategy is recommended, considering the local technical and institutional aspects.

Findings

In case of no actions taken, emissions of PM and ozone precursors could increase at the year 2013 by 95 and 50 percent, respectively. Implementing the proposed integrated strategy could result in reducing the emissions of PM and ozone precursors by about 53 and 49 percent, respectively.

Practical implications

The proposed strategy is applicable because the targets are set considering the local aspects. However, the estimated emission reductions could almost compensate for the increase in the fleet size over the time. Therefore, achieving real reductions of emissions requires additional strategies to be considered.

Originality/value

Owing to the lack of local emission factors and measurements, this original work highlights the expected impacts of the potential strategies for controlling vehicle emissions in Cairo. Also, the findings indicate the need to consider other additional strategies in the long term planning process.
Environmental pollution around the Muzhievo gold‐base metal deposit, Ukraine
Authors: Shumlyanskyy Vladyslav , Ivantyshyna Olga , Makarenko Mykola , Subbotin Andriy
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To give information about the study of environmental pollution as the result of mining activity from minor toxic elements (Hg, Sb, As, Cd, Tl) which are typical for ores from base metal, gold‐base metal and gold deposits.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to determine the intensity and extent of pollution as well as the possible threat to the population, ecogeochemical sampling (and consequent laboratory analysis of samples) of dumps, soil, and both surface and ground waters was completed. Analytical study of samples was completed, data were interpreted and maps constructed. To estimate the degree of soil and water contamination with toxic elements, the maximum allowable concentration (MAC) and background content (BC) were chosen as the main criteria of the hazard caused by toxic elements.

Findings

The paper shows the distribution of As, Hg, Sb, Tl, Cd and some “heavy” element (Pb, Zn, Mn, Ni) concentrations in the environment (soil, water) around the Muzhievo gold‐base metal deposit, and indicates the major role of the waste dumps near the deposit as a source of pollution by toxic elements.

Practical implications

The study gives an example of environmental pollution by toxic elements caused by mining activity around one gold‐base metal deposit in the Transcarpathians. The study could be a guide for mine officials in the development of preventive measures against pollution by toxic elements in soil and water around Muzhievo village.

Originality/value

This paper presents useful information and offers practical help (approach, data interpretation) to researchers and ecologists studying the distribution of minor toxic elements in the environment around active and closed mines in the mercury‐base metal, base metal, gold‐base metal and gold deposits.
When does improper conduct become criminal? Conflicts of interest in the mutual fund industry
Authors: Kotlier Jonathan L.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To emphasize the need for financial services companies such mutual funds and brokerage houses to establish internal controls and related procedures for identifying potential conflicts of interest.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews government investigations into scandals involving the mutual fund industry over the past two years, including late trading, marketing timing, revenue sharing, directed brokerage, and gift‐giving; notes that criminal prosecution in this area is infrequent but still possible; and recommends, given the current landscape, that financial services companies examine their procedures for identifying and eliminating conflicts of interest.

Findings

Concludes that recent mutual fund scandals have changed the regulatory landscape and the regulators, and in some cases prosecutors, are committed to aggressively pursuing any possible impropriety or conflict of interest between mutual fund advisors and the investing public.

Originality/value

Provides a useful review of recent mutual fund scandals for the purpose of demonstrating to fund managers and directors why they should review their controls and related procedures to identify and eliminate conflicts of interest.
California Securities Laws: a new sheriff in town
Authors: Mendoza Gary
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To describe State of California Attorney General Bill Lockyer's approach to securities enforcement and to explore the national implications of a state attorney general assuming such authority.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes Attorney General Lockyer's recent investigations targeting the mutual fund industy and four resulting enforcement cases, explains Lockyer's intentions not to be constrained by the SEC's actions or applicable federal securities laws if he believes a violation of state law has occurred, and makes practical suggestions as to future developments for securities firms with operations in California.

Findings

Makes it clear that, as a result of the expanded authority granted to Attorney General Lockyer by the California state legislature, securities firms must comply with California securities laws even when those laws differ from SEC regulations and federal laws.

Originality/value

Important guidance on recent developments from a California‐based investment compliance lawyer.
Does your firm have a Mutual Fund Suitability Guidelines Manual?
Authors: Cascarelli Joseph C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To describe the need and suggest guidelines for a formal, written manual that provides a firm, its registered representatives, and its supervisory principals a line of defense against costly repercussions from sales practice violations.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses regulations concerning the suitable sales of securities to customers, the legal basis for reasonable supervision, why a brokerage firm's business model should guide it in building its manual, contents of a prototype manual, how investment objectives and risk tolerance should be considered, how performance information is disclosed so it is understandable to the customer, both justifiable reasons and dangers related to switching a customer from one fund to another, commission savings issues (including breakpoints, letters of intent, rights of accumulation, and reinstatement privileges), and home office supervision of reps and supervisory principals.

Findings

Regulators are concerned with an investment firm's culture of compliance, including its written supervisory procedures and evidence of supervisor training and compliance performance. To support principals charged with supervising registered reps and investment adviser reps, a firm should have a formal training program that starts out with a well‐thought‐out mutual fund suitability guidelines manual.

Originality/value

A hands‐on guide for writing an important manual by a specialized investment compliance lawyer.
Fair value methodologies
Authors: Kraft Paul
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To describe the application of fair value methodologies to fund operations and emphasize the importance of appropriate valuation procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the need for appropriate valuation methodologies, describes a recent survey that shows how fair valuation policies and procedures have evolved over time, recommends procedures for adoption of consistent valuation procedures and industry practices, explains recent fund management trends such as the creation of separate valuation committees and the use of third‐party pricing vendors, and warns that valuation is becoming a more frequent subject of SEC examinations.

Findings

Concludes that investment companies, private investment companies, boards, and managements are re‐evaluating and updating their valuation policies and procedures, partly in response to increased focus on valuations by the SEC in its examinations.

Originality/value

Provides the results of a useful survey on fair value methodologies and important considerations for fund managers and directors as they review and update their valuation methodologies and procedures.
Certain broker‐dealers deemed not to be investment advisers: background, summary and status of new rule
Authors: Green Elizabeth C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The aim of this article is to provide a description of the rule proposals and other events that preceded the SEC's adoption of the 2005 Final Rule, a summary of the terms of the 2005 Final Rule, and a brief update regarding the status of the 2005 Final Rule.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes the SEC's 1999 proposed rule, “Certain Broker Dealers Deemed Not to Be Investment Advisers,” questions that led to that proposed rule, commentary on that proposed rule regarding advisory activities for which broker‐dealers receive special compensation, commentary regarding differences between the regulation of broker‐dealers and the regulation of investment advisers, commentary regarding investors' understanding of the differences between broker‐dealers and investment advisers, the five‐year period without a formal rule, the 2005 Proposed Rule, the 2005 Final Rule, and concerns that remain after issuance of the 2005 Final Rule.

Findings

The Chairman of the SEC directed the SEC staff to investigate and report within 90 days on ways in which the policy issues raised by the 2005 Final Rule could be addressed. In addition to the investigation of issues raised by the 2005 Final Rule by the SEC staff, and although the 2005 Final Rule was adopted, to some extent, in response to the lawsuit filed against the SEC by the Financial Planning Association (the “FPA”) in July 2004, the FPA filed a new lawsuit against the SEC on April 28, 2005.

Originality/value

A useful summary of the background and remaining issues related to the SEC's 2005 Final Rule on application of the Adviser's Act to broker‐dealers offering certain non‐traditional brokerage programs.
Registered investment adviser compliance in a hedge fund environment
Authors: Scott David E.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore what the author believes to be some of the key challenges facing hedge fund managers that are preparing for registration with the Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“Advisers Act”).

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses marketing issues, including promotional use of track records from predecessor firms, use of target returns, use of selected investment performance, explicit or implicit promises of low volatility, and promises of specific fund characteristics. Discusses protection and proper use of fund assets, including asset safeguarding policies and procedures, and allocating expenses to funds. Discusses managing material, non‐public information; valuation of fund assets; side letters; and compliance program requirements.

Findings

The impacts of the new requirements will be significant for many hedge fund managers. Unregistered hedge fund managers will soon become subject to the full scope of the Advisers Act, including detailed compliance program requirements, obligations, and restrictions with respect to marketing, affiliated transaction prohibitions and restrictions, custody requirements, books and records creation and retention obligations, and a broad array of other standard and situational requirements. The organizations that meet these challenges successfully will be those that understand their risk profiles, foster top‐down “cultures of compliance,” and dedicate sufficient human and other resources to develop appropriate compliance programs and to monitor and continuously evaluate their exposures to potential compliance issues.

Originality/value

Provides a useful discussion of what the author believes to be some of the most important regulatory concerns and challenges faced by hedge fund advisers as they prepare for a new regulated environment.
The supplier and customer contribution to manufacturing flexibility
Authors: Kayis Berman , Kara Sami
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to present the formulation of relationships involving different manufacturing flexibility elements related to the total chain of acquisition, processing and distribution in order to assess the level of flexibility practiced by Australian manufacturing industries.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of published works and a detailed data gathered from a wide range of Australian manufacturing industry through questionnaires are evaluated to determine how customer‐supplier relationships could have an impact on manufacturing flexibility and enhance the total chain of manufacturing. The main analysis tool used is logistic regression. The knowledge and analysis obtained are linked to evaluate the level of each type of flexibility as well as the impact of customer‐supplier flexibility on the total chain of manufacturing. Finally, a performance assessment framework is developed to connect the interlinking factors and contribution regarding customer, supplier, and manufacturing flexibility of Australian industries.

Findings

The relationships and correlation of data displayed would enhance the available body of knowledge on the total chain of manufacturing. Consequently, the relationships found in this paper can be used to support the overall flexibility assessment of manufacturing industries. In the paper, the current flexibility practices of Australian industries are assessed and a framework is suggested based on several elements taken into consideration. As the different elements under flexibility have suggested, the manufacturing flexibility of Australian industries as affected by customer‐supplier participation is found as medium. Suggestions for pursuing improvements are recommended.

Research limitations/implications

The main outcome of the research is to reveal that customer‐supplier relationship could significantly affect the flexibility level within the industries under different functional areas. As a result, to achieve the “real” flexibility of the system, flexibility has to be built into the total chain of acquisition‐processing‐distribution stages, not just focusing on the manufacturing aspects only. The flexibility framework developed in this paper would better assess the impact of customer‐supplier flexibility on the total chain of manufacturing and give more insights for analyzing the flexibility level of customers, suppliers, and manufacturers with data gathered across the globe.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in its detailed analysis of the effect of supplier and customer contribution on manufacturing problems as well as developing a flexibility assessment framework to discuss its impact on the total chain of manufacturing. Its value to both body of knowledge and practitioners are emphasized in the paper.
Influence of flexibilities on manufacturing cells for faster delivery using simulation
Authors: Julie Yazici Hulya
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The effects of cellular manufacturing (CM) on increased delivery speed and resource utilization along with its interaction with volume, mix, routing, and labor flexibilities are not clear for manufacturers and supply chain managers. Aims to focus on this.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on real data from a US screen‐printing company, a simulation model is designed to determine the influence of volume, mix, routing and labor flexibilities in presence of volatile demand. Simulation of one and two cell configuration is compared with job shop to determine the shortest delivery and highest utilization.

Findings

As volume flexibility increases, delivery is faster in presence of CM compared to job shop. Furthermore, added routing flexibility results in 70 percent shorter lead time with low volume flexibility, and 85 percent shorter lead time with high volume flexibility. Additionally, in the two‐cell design, assignment of fewer, but more multi‐skilled workers shared between cells results in higher utilization and lower lead time.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the manufacturing research by revealing the benefits of CM, and the importance of volume, routing, and labor flexibilities reacting quickly to volatile demand in today's dispersed manufacturing environment. Also, this study demonstrates that labor allocation is equally important in manufacturing cells as the equipment and part decisions are.

Originality/value

The findings provide manufacturers a guideline on how to best set up CM and operational flexibilities to respond faster to volatile demand. The simulation model is successful in showing that cells and manufacturing flexibilities are strong enablers of faster delivery lead time and higher resource utilization.
Performance measurement in the public sector: the German experience
Authors: Greiling Dorothea
Published: January 2007

Purpose

In recent public sector reforms performance measurement has been a central element in many countries. This article aims to review the use of performance measurement within the German public sector, to evaluate the state‐of‐the‐art and to give recommendations for improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

After a brief overview of the intended purposes of performance measurement within new public management, based on a literature review, this article examines the state‐of‐the‐art of performance measurement in the German public sector. An evaluation, based on the identified intended purposes, well‐known methodological problems and empirical findings, follows. Recommendations are given, identifying various areas for improvement.

Findings

The German public sector can be described as a late starter with respect to performance measurement. The full potential performance measurement may offer in the opinion of its supporters is not realised. The front runners of performance measurement are local governments. Voluntary inter‐administrative comparison circles are the most frequently used instrument, followed – to a much lesser extent – by quality‐management initiatives and performance‐indicator‐based contracting. The experience with and the acceptance of comparison circles have been mixed.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed into the transaction and opportunity costs of performance measurement and into the conditions under which the performance measurement can support an organisational learning process.

Originality/value

This paper provides a structured overview of the state‐of‐the‐art of performance measurement in the German public sector, taking all federal levels into account and offers ideas for the improvement of performance measurement.
Coping with targets: performance measurement in The Netherlands police
Authors: Hoogenboezem Jaap A. , Hoogenboezem Dirk B.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The article aims to understand why performance management schemes or targeting were introduced in the Dutch police organisation after 2002. This question is relevant for two reasons. First, Dutch political culture is traditionally not overly concerned with performance of public organisations, and second, police work seems especially averse to targeting.

Design/methodology/approach

The article explores changes in Dutch politics, and especially the rise and agenda of Pim Fortuyn, a flamboyant politician who disrupted the traditional political relations in the Dutch polity, and who put government performance on top of the political agenda. Analysis of secondary sources is used to track the response of police management, and field work is used to investigate the reactions of street level police officers.

Findings

The introduction of targeting is directly attributable to changes in the polity. As such, they represent a pendulum swing that will move back, especially when the limitations of targeting will become clear, and when the political discourse has moved on to topics other than public accountability.

Practical implications

Managers of public organisations could learn from this case that political pressure can have far‐reaching consequences, which cannot always be ignored, and can lead to far‐reaching effects in the organisation, that may be counterproductive.

Originality/value

This article asks simple questions: Why are Dutch police forces using performance contracts involving targets negotiated between the department of home affairs, the mayor and the police chief? Why were they introduced from 2002 on? And will they be a lasting practice in the Dutch police?
The national identity as a motivational factor for better performance in the public sector
Authors: Karkatsoulis Panos , Michalopoulos Nikos , Moustakatou Vasso
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to concern itself with the research field of public sector performance measurement and to introduce the national identity as a performance factor, through a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper attempts an innovative presentation and identification of the attitudes, motivations and beliefs of both Greek people and the volunteers regarding the organisation, the success and the benefits of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. The paper reviews the literature on the relation of national identity and sports and analyses the opinion polls on the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that national identity has been the major motivational factor for the volunteers, whose contribution represented a significant added value to the success of the Olympics. The measurement of performance in such a qualitative analysis is supported by self‐reported customers' satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

It is not a quantitative, structured and executed initial survey, but a secondary, qualitative one.

Practical implications

The paper suggests the re‐definition of the usually negatively conceived notion of national identity, in a new managerial framework, as a performance factor.

Originality/value

This paper is original in its conception, when linking national identity/patriotism with sports and volunteerism in the context of performance measurement, and has a practical dimension, since it proposes tools for measuring performance in cases where a qualitative analysis is appropriate.
The Ritzerization of knowledge
Authors: Roberts Joanne
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Explores the use of strategies adopted by authors and publishers to enhance the success potential of their books.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the literature on the production of best selling business books, strategies and techniques increasingly being deployed in the production of social science texts are considered. These strategies are collectively referred to as the “Ritzerization of knowledge”.The Disneyization of Society, by Alan Bryman, is explored as an example of this Ritzerization strategy.

Findings

It is argued that while such techniques aid in the production of easy reading, or “knowledge‐lite”, the dictates of the market may threaten the survival of more demanding texts and, worryingly, the capacity for a scholarly depth of understanding or the development of a substantial knowledge base.

Originality/value

Examines the “Ritzerization of knowledge” in both a social and a marketing context.
Globalisation, collective action and counter‐coordination
Authors: Grieco Margaret , Bhopal Mhinder
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This article aims to explore the use of new information communication technology by the Malaysian labour movement. New information communication technologies are undoubtedly globalising, but these same technologies can also be used by labour to retrieve and re‐achieve a more equitable balance between labour and capital. The low transaction costs of the new information communication technology, and the universal reach of these same technologies, provide the labour movement with a critical new tool for organising and bargaining. Malaysia provides us with a useful example of this new context.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors e‐interviewed Malaysian labour activists and reviewed Malaysian labour and human rights web sites to develop a framework in which the discussion of global counter‐coordination by labour could be situated. This article provides case material from Malaysian web sites to demonstrate the importance of this technology in labour advocacy within Malaysia and in its connection with the outside world. These demonstrations of connectivity support the proposition of the paper that the new information technology affords the opportunity for the development of global union practices.

Findings

The article finds that the Malaysian labour movement is aware of the power of global relay that the technology provides it with and harnesses this power in its interaction with the state.

Research limitations/implications

The level of electronic activity by the labour movement may be under‐recorded in this assessment, as the resources were not available to determine the volume of electronic mailing which takes place within the Malaysian labour relations environment.

Practical implications

This article provides the international labour movement with a perspective of the new information communication technology, which can have practical consequences for action: meta‐coordination structures are required at the level of information exchange.

Originality/value

This article draws attention to the “power of global relay” as a new feature in the politics of labour. This insight requires further theorisation and should be of interest within a range of disciplines concerned with critical approaches to change and power.
Recovering experience, confirming identity, voicing resistance: The Braceros, the internet and counter‐coordination
Authors: Little Stephen , Clegg Stewart
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper investigates how the learning trajectory of corporations utilising information and communication technologies has been matched by the labour movement and social movements associated with it.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates new communication dynamics of labour in the international setting. It then focuses on a broader and richer set of online practices by labour by drawing on material placed on the world wide web by members of and advocates for the Braceros (the strong arms) – migrant Mexican workers. These practices follow on a history of effective use of the new information communication technologies by the Zapatista movement in Mexico.

Findings

The paper places these activities in the context of globalisation and the global movement of capital and labour. It argues that the practices of online communication associated with the Braceros can be harnessed to move beyond the reactive shadowing of capital by labour. Instead innovative and proactive forms of monitoring policies and critiquing outcomes become possible.

Practical implications

Internet‐based counter‐coordination allows the construction and diffusion of a different understanding of the nature and consequences of the current mode of globalisation.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the ways in which information and communication technologies can be used to engage in thematic mapping and construction of memory by labour and provides an example of the electronic sampling and indexing of material.
The networked union? The internet as a challenge to trade union identity and roles
Authors: Martínez Lucio Miguel , Walker Steve
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The article aims to look at the development of the internet in terms of its implications for the labour movement and its international activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper brings together conclusions and findings based on the previous work of the two individual authors who have studied the role of the internet from a national and international perspective, using a range of methodologies.

Findings

The impact of the internet in terms of facilitating communication and renewal strategies has been highly significant. However, the authors argue that such developments are also mediated by trade union structures and organisational traditions/ideologies at the national level where there is still a considerable degree of variety. It also looks and focuses on some of the challenges of international labour co‐ordination through the use of the internet, noting some of the difficulties faced by trade unionists. The paper therefore brings together insights into the way organisations such as trade unions interact with such developments both at the national and international level.

Originality/value

The article emphasises the need to develop a political and sociological understanding of the internet within industrial relations and in terms of future research.
Architectonics of McDonald's cohabitation with Wal‐Mart
Authors: Boje David , Enríquez Esther , González M. Teresa , Macías Eduardo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Architectonics is proposed as a dialogic theory and method to research three discursive spheres: McDonald's corporation, McDonaldization, and McDonaldland.

Design/methodology/approach

Bakhtin proposed architectonics as a new method for the human sciences, one that interanimates cognitive with ethical and aesthetic systemness. This essay develops architectonics further, and applies it to the study of globalization and localization of the McDonald's and Wal‐Mart corporations, which now cohabits with each other in New Mexico (and elsewhere).

Findings

A general inquiry system is suggested as a framework to analyze the architectonics of other organizations, in future international studies.

Originality/value

Through the application of the notion of architectonics to the McDonald's and Wal‐Mart corporations the authors develop an innovative approach to understanding organizations.
Comparison of debt financing between international and domestic firms
Authors: Gonenc Halit
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate relative differences in debt financing between international and domestic industrial firms operating in Turkey, Germany and the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis depends on multivariate regression analysis, while controlling the effects of firm‐specific characteristics, industry effects and controlling shareholders. The approach is to examine the effects of the features of the financial markets and institutions in the sample countries.

Findings

Turkish international firms use higher total debts than domestic firms. However, no strong evidence is found for the sample of German and UK firms to support this result. The major finding is that, apart from the effects of firm‐specific factors, industry and controlling shareholders, Turkish international firms increase their debt financing at a fixed rate.

Research limitations/implications

The basic features of Turkish financial markets and institutions, especially bank ownership of equity in firms, are the major reason for the differences between the results in the sample countries.

Originality/value

This paper provides an international comparison for the dissimilarity in debt financing between international and domestic firms.
Management's disclosure of hedging activity
Authors: Reynolds‐Moehrle Jennifer
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study aims to examine how market participants changed the way they process earnings information after learning of the implementation of hedging activities.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of derivative user and non‐user firms, this study empirically compares earnings predictability, forecast revision behavior, and the earnings response coefficients before and after the disclosure of sustained hedging activity.

Findings

The findings indicate that analysts’ forecast accuracy increased and that unexpected earnings were incorporated into subsequent earnings forecasts to a greater extent subsequent to disclosure of sustained hedging activity. Additionally, the findings indicate an increase in the earnings‐return relation in the hedging activity period.

Research limitations/implications

This evidence empirically supports the claim that, when a company communicates that hedging activities have been started, market participants are better able to forecast earnings and view subsequent earnings announcements as providing greater information about future earnings. The results may be understated due to the minimal disclosures required during the sample period. Future research could revisit these tests for the SFAS 133 time period as a way of evaluating the usefulness of more detailed disclosures.

Practical implications

The models used in the tests of forecast revisions and earnings response coefficients could easily be adapted to other settings where the research question compares different time periods.

Originality/value

This study adds to the empirical evidence regarding the effects of hedging activity by providing direct evidence of analysts’ use of and investors’ reactions to earnings surprises following the disclosure of the implementation of hedging activities.
Chemically Bonded Phosphate Ceramics: I, A Dissolution Model of Formation
Authors: Wagh Arun S. , Jeong Seung Y.
Published: January 2007

This is the first of three papers in which the kinetics of formation of chemically bonded phosphate ceramics is discussed. A literature survey indicates that the formation of such ceramics is a three‐step process. First, oxides dissolve in a phosphoric acid or an acid phosphate solution and metal ions are released into the solution. The aquoions formed from these cations then react with phosphate anions and form a gel of metal hydrophosphates. In the last step, the saturated gel crystallizes into a ceramic. In this paper, we have proposed that the dissolution is the controlling step and developed a general dissolution model of the kinetics of formation of these ceramics. As an example, the model is used to discuss the kinetics of formation of magnesium phosphate ceramics in detail. In the second and third papers, the model has been used to develop processes to form ceramics of alumina and iron oxides.
Structure and Microwave Dielectric Properties of (Zn1−xCox)TiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Kim Hyo Tae , Lanagan Michael T.
Published: January 2007

Dielectric ceramics in the system (Zn1−xCox)TiO3 (x= 0–1) were synthesized by the solid‐state reaction route. The phase distribution, microstructure, and dielectric properties were characterized by using powder X‐ray diffraction analysis, electron microscopy, and microwave measurement techniques. Three phase composition regions were identified in the specimens sintered at 1150°C; [spinel + rutile] at 0 ≤x≤ 0.5, [spinel + ilmenite + rutile] at 0.5 < x≤ 0.7, and [ilmenite] phase at 0.7 < x≤ 1. For the 0 ≤x≤ 0.5 region, the amount of Ti‐rich precipitates incorporated into the spinel phase decreased with the Co content at 0 ≤x≤ 0.5, with a concomitant increase of the rutile phase. The ilmenite phase appeared for high Co content. The microwave dielectric properties depended on the phase composition and volume according to the three phase regions, where the relative amount of rutile to the spinel or ilmenite determined the dielectric properties. The dielectric constant as a function of Co addition was modeled with a Maxwell mixing rule. An optimum phase distribution was determined in this system with dielectric constant of 25, a Q*f 70 000 GHz, and a low temperature coefficient of the resonant frequency.
Diffusion‐Induced Interface Migration and Mechanical Property Improvement in the Lead Magnesium Niobate–Lead Titanate System
Authors: Kim Min–Soo , Fisher John G. , Lee Ho‐Yong , Kang Suk‐Joong L.
Published: January 2007

Diffusion–induced interface migration (DIIM) is a technique for modifying the microstructure and mechanical properties of ceramics. In the present study, we investigated DIIM in 0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3·0.35PbTiO3 (mol fraction) (PMN–PT) ceramics and its effect on mechanical properties. PMN–PT samples were fabricated using the Columbite precursor method and then surface–modified by heat treatment after packing with PbTiO3 powder to induce DIIM. Evaluation of mechanical properties using Hertzian indentation and Vickers indentation showed that the critical load for yielding and surface hardness of the PbTiO3–packed PMN–PT samples were higher than those of the unpacked samples. Thus, the mechanical properties were improved in the samples with a DIIM layer. These results showed that the reliability of mechanical properties of PMN–PT samples is improved by inducing DIIM at the surface.
Fas‐mediated upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts: Role in the inflammatory response
Authors: FUJIWARA Masao , SUEMOTO Hiroki , MURAGAKI Yasuteru , OOSHIMA Akira
Published: January 2007

The Fas–Fas ligand interaction is the most important pathway in starting apoptosis. In addition, several recent reports have emerged documenting non‐apoptotic roles for Fas. However, a non‐apoptotic role of Fas in dermal fibroblasts remains unknown. The present study investigated whether Fas stimulation not only promotes apoptosis but also stimulates elements of the inflammatory response such as angiogenesis and macrophage infiltration. Fas stimulation was performed by treating cultured human dermal fibroblasts with an agonistic anti‐Fas monoclonal antibody (mAb). Anti‐Fas mAb‐treated fibroblasts showed a significantly greater increase of caspase‐3 and caspase‐8 activity compared with control fibroblasts. Addition of the anti‐Fas mAb induced DNA fragmentation, as confirmed by the DNA ladder assay. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated 2′‐deoxyuridine 5′‐triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining showed that treatment with the anti‐Fas mAb induced an increase of apoptotic fibroblasts in a time‐dependent manner. At both mRNA and protein levels, anti‐Fas mAb‐treated fibroblasts showed significantly higher expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1 compared with control fibroblasts. A pan‐caspase inhibitor (Z‐VAD‐FMK) significantly inhibited VEGF and MCP‐1 expression. After transplantation of fibroblasts into mice with severe combined immunodeficiency, the nodules derived from anti‐Fas mAb‐treated fibroblasts showed more abundant neovascularization, increased macrophage infiltration, and more apoptotic cells in comparison with nodules derived from control fibroblasts. The results of both in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed significantly higher angiogenic activity and macrophage chemotactic activity of anti‐Fas mAb‐treated fibroblasts compared with control fibroblasts.
Gianotti–Crosti syndrome in a child following hepatitis B virus vaccination
Authors: KARAKAŞ Mehmet , DURDU Murat , TUNCER İlhan , ÇEVLİK Filiz
Published: January 2007

Gianotti–Crosti syndrome is self‐limited, characterized by papular eruption with a symmetrical distribution on the limbs and face of children, and a dermatosis of unknown etiology. However, there are many suggested factors such as a number of diseases (viral or bacterial) and vaccination. We report a case of Gianotti‐Crosti syndrome that had developed 3 weeks after the hepatitis B virus vaccination.
Genetic estimates of annual reproductive success in male brown bears: the effects of body size, age, internal relatedness and population density
Authors: ZEDROSSER ANDREAS , BELLEMAIN EVA , TABERLET PIERRE , SWENSON JON E.
Published: January 2007

We studied male yearly reproductive success (YRS) and its determinants (phenotypic characteristics, age, population density) in two Scandinavian brown bear populations, using molecular techniques to determine paternity.

We found a significant difference in male YRS between the study areas, with lower YRS in the south than in the north.

In general, older and larger males had higher YRS. Older males may be more experienced in competition for reproduction (male dominance). Large body size is of direct benefit in male–male competition and of advantage in endurance competition for the access to females.

Age was relatively more important for YRS in the north and body size was more important in the south, due perhaps to differences in male age structure due to illegal killing. A single old male dominated the reproduction in the north during the study, which resulted most probably in the relatively higher importance of age in the north. In the south, with a more even male age structure, no single male was able to dominate, probably resulting in a more intense competition among males, with body size as the deciding factor.

Male YRS was correlated positively with population density. This may be related to the structure of the expanding bear population, with female densities declining towards the population edge.

Internal relatedness, a measure of genetic heterozygosity, was correlated negatively with YRS, suggesting that outbred individuals have a higher YRS. Individual heterozygosity at key or many loci may reflect male physical qualities and condition‐sensitive traits, which may benefit males directly in contest or in sperm competition.
Some compatible Rhizobium leguminosarum strains in peas decrease infections when parasitised by Orobanche crenata
Authors: MABROUK Y , ZOURGUI L , SIFI B , DELAVAULT P , SIMIER P , BELHADJ O
Published: January 2007

Orobanche crenata (crenate broomrape) produces serious damage to many legume crops and particularly becomes a limiting factor for pea production in the Mediterranean basin. Nodulation effects on pea–broomrape relationships were studied using the commercial pea cultivar Douce de Provence and different Rhizobium strains using pot and Petri dish experiments. First, the benefit of bacterial inoculation on plant growth and efficiency of N incorporation were demonstrated for two isolates, P.SOM and P.1236. These isolates did not influence parasite germination induced by the artificial stimulant, GR24. In contrast, pea root inoculation with P.SOM and P.1236 isolates led to a reduced root infection by O. crenata, resulting from a lower Orobanche germination rate close to pea roots and a limited capacity of the parasitic seedlings to develop tubercles. Broomrape necrosis was observed both before and after parasite attachment to inoculated pea roots. Concomitantly, reduction in infection was accompanied by enhanced peroxidase activity and constantly high phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity in pea roots. These data suggest the involvement of these enzymes in pea resistance to crenate broomrape induced by the compatible rhizobia. Management of Orobanche via crop selection based on these enzyme systems is a viable option.