bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying stakeholder theory to analyze corporate environmental performance
Authors: Elijido‐Ten Evangeline
Published: September 2007

Purpose

Stakeholder theory has been used extensively as it offers a way to address the changing demands in a dynamic business environment. This study aims to use stakeholder theory to analyze corporate environmental behavior by Australian listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting Ullmann's three‐dimensional framework comprising stakeholder power, strategic posture, and economic performance, an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model is developed. Three measures of stakeholder power are used: shareholder power (SP), creditor power, and government power (GP). Strategic posture is represented by the level of management's environmental concern (EC) and economic performance is proxied by the firm's return on assets (ROA). Using the 2002 Australian Conservation Foundation environmental performance ranking, the OLS model tests for any significant relationships between corporate environmental performance and the three components of the framework.

Findings

The findings suggest that the level of ownership dispersion (SP), the industry sensitivity characterized by the increased governmental sanctions (GP) as well as the management's concern for the environment (EC) are the significant factors influencing the decision to incorporate superior environmental activities in corporate strategic plans. Measures of economic performance (ROA) show no significant relation with the firms' environmental performance. Likewise, suggestions that size and age of the firms could act as intervening variables are not supported by the results.

Originality/value

The empirical results provide evidence that the application of stakeholder theory can contribute towards one's understanding of how corporate entities behave, particularly in adapting to the rapidly changing business environment where environmental issues are becoming increasingly important.
Environmental disclosure and performance reporting in Malaysia
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Yahya Khadijah , Marzuki Amiruddin Ahmad
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which the environmental disclosures in annual reports of companies listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange are associated with corporate characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A rating system for environmental disclosures was developed, based on a review of previous studies, embracing industry membership, financial performance, share price fluctuations, political cost proxies, dependence on debt and the capital market.

Findings

The findings suggested that environmental disclosure is negatively associated with company financial performance. A significant inverse relationship between disclosure score and return on assets is apparent, suggesting that environmental disclosure in Malaysia has different priorities from disclosures elsewhere.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind to be conducted in Malaysia, and its empirical findings complement the expectations of prior studies.
Developing an intrapreneur‐led three‐phase model of innovation
Authors: Gapp Rod , Fisher Ron
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to demonstrate an intrapreneur‐led three‐phase model of innovation based on understanding the relationships between service delivery and product development thought, and the application of intrapreneurial‐focused teams in the healthcare and manufacturing industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The research proposes a model that starts with effective teambuilding within an intrapreneurial context, then encompasses the relationship between service and product as a platform for the development of more effective innovation. A two‐part qualitative case study provides insight and understanding of the model's application within both service and manufacturing environments.

Findings

Investigating service delivery shortfalls with effectively developed intrapreneurial teams leads to new and/or improved services. New service developments in turn lead to the development of new products. An action research model based on Deming's PDSA (plan, do, study, act) cycle determines the point of departure for each stage of innovation. The PDSA cycle provides a method for combining innovation, knowledge development and management.

Practical implications

Current approaches focus on the characteristics of intrapreneurs rather than on the linked activities that lead to successful product/service innovation. Important issues such as how teams progress through the stages of service and product development are not usually considered. As a consequence, there is little in the extant literature to guide prospective intrapreneurs or organisations.

Originality/value

Little research has been conducted into how intrapreneurship occurs in organisations. This paper provides insight into how intrapreneurship functions through new service and new product innovations in both the service and manufacturing sectors.
Small business and the informal economy: evidence from the UK
Authors: Williams Colin C.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The magnitude of the informal economy has been estimated using either indirect measurement methods that employ proxy indicators or small‐scale household surveys. This paper seeks to provide an analysis of the findings of the first direct survey in an advanced market economy of national business opinion on its magnitude and impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses the findings of a UK survey of business opinion on the prevalence of the informal economy in their sector and its impacts on their businesses, namely the Small Business Service's (SBS)2004/05 Small Business Surveyof 7,505 small businesses.

Findings

The finding is that 14 per cent of UK small businesses view themselves as negatively affected by the informal economy, with businesses estimating on average that 8 per cent of trade in their sector is conducted on an off‐the‐books basis. The sectors most affected by the informal economy are land transport, construction, the motor vehicle trade, and hotels and restaurants, with fledgling enterprises and businesses in peripheral regions most affected.

Research limitations/implications

This survey records only business perceptions of the size of the informal economy in their sector rather than directly collecting data on the amount of informal work that businesses conduct.

Practical implications

This paper demonstrates that it is wholly feasible to conduct business surveys on the size and impacts of the informal economy and recommends modifications to the SBS survey method to improve data collection.

Originality/value

This paper reports the findings of the first survey in an advanced economy of national business opinion on the size and impacts of the informal economy.
Farmers' markets as small business incubators and safety nets
Authors: Cameron Alan
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to explore the importance of a sample of New Zealand farmers' markets in providing a supportive setting for the take‐off as well as the decline stage of the small business life cycle, with a view to identifying factors that may enhance rural small business survivability.

Design/methodology/approach

The task was achieved by use of a combination of interviews and case studies. A list of new generation farmers' markets was compiled. Managers from four of these markets were interviewed to identify the possible existence of businesses that had been fostered by, but had now outgrown, the market. Four incubated businesses were selected from one of the longer established markets. From a more recently established market, 18 stallholders were selected for examination of their attitudes towards the market as a nurturing environment in relation to the life‐cycle stage of the business. Data were analysed using qualitative techniques of theme identification and analysis.

Findings

It was found that farmers' markets can have a role as small business incubators and safety nets, thus enhancing the survival chances of rural small businesses. This may be particularly useful where dwindling government subsidies and growing supermarket power result in declining incomes and reduced outlets for small‐scale farmers and rural producers.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings are limited by the non‐random nature of the sampling procedure. In such an exploratory study, the main emphasis was on establishing the existence of the incubator and safety net functions. Further research is needed to establish the extent of these roles.

Originality/value

The research investigates a relatively unique setting of an unsubsidised agricultural sector.
Creative use of technology for learning and development: avoiding controlling tendencies
Authors: Cunningham Ian
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to challenge assumptions about e‐learning and its use in organizations; to show how organizations can take a more sophisticated stance on the use of technology for learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on work done in a variety of organizations plus research in HR functions.

Findings

The need is for organizations to re‐examine some of their assumptions about the use of technology. Also organizations need to make e‐learning more user friendly and more appropriate for individual needs.

Practical implications

The article has real practical implications for leaders/managers and learning and development professionals – for example it shows how organizations can use free resources instead of buying into expensive commercial material.

Originality/value

The article will be of value to managers and learning specialists who are involved in decisions about learning strategies.
E‐learning: your flexible development friend?
Authors: Bell Jane
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to set out developments in the world of e‐learning using examples of new technologies being developed and used in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a viewpoint on the developments in the world of e‐learning.

Findings

The paper sets out how e‐learning is becoming more widely used and more versatile as technology changes. It highlights the barriers that can get in the way of people engaging with online learning and shows how to avoid these issues. It sets out the advantages to businesses and learners and gives examples of applications for different learning needs. The development and use of haptics is explored as an example of cutting edge practice.

Practical implications

The paper provides a wake‐up call for any professionals who are not engaging with the most recent technological innovations. E‐learning is here to stay and is advancing rapidly – organizations need to stay abreast of developments if they are to compete effectively in the global marketplace.

Originality/value

The value of this article is to show learning and development professionals some of the benefits of using e‐learning approaches – flexibility, cost effectiveness, time efficiency and adaptability to learner preferences.
Online collaboration: how can it boost personalized learning?
Authors: Noonan Jerona
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how collaboration services can support the development and learning process, to the benefit of both the individual and broader organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores how sophisticated online collaboration solutions complement face‐to‐face training and follow‐up coaching and support by replicating much of its physical functionality and two‐way communication capability.

Findings

In a training context, audio, video and conferencing tools have historically been used for the purposes of individual coaching or reinforcement. Yet increasingly, they are recognized as having much broader application in such areas as mentoring, coaching and training, so enhancing both personal development and the acquisition of wider business management skills.

Practical implications

In achieving this, it shows how collaboration has moved on from its traditional focus on one‐to‐many to providing one‐to‐one unified communication through the use of tools such as chat and feedback mechanisms including e‐quizzes, votes and surveys. Availability is one thing, usage is another however and here, if they are to encourage maximum participation and usage in a training context, such tools must be easy to deploy, easy to use and offer ubiquitous access.

Originality/value

The value of this approach is to show how, from a training perspective, the latest collaboration services offer a uniquely broad and cost‐effective mechanism in getting beyond traditional geographical, cultural and technological barriers to share work‐related skills, techniques and product knowledge.
Corporate intranets: how can they give a new meaning to training and development?
Authors: Denton Keith
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper explains how a corporate intranet can be used for something more than an electric library. The critical step is to not assume the intranet is for information sharing, but rather should be seen as a powerful tool rapid, relevant, and specific feedback.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explains how to combine data visualization software and the corporate intranet to provide relevant feedback and be a collaborate tool. An employees own desktop, can be used every day to show each person what is important, where they are headed, and how they are doing.

Findings

Research has consistently shown the importance of teams having a common vision, and for the need to create subordinate goals and objectives that fit within a larger context.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is to explain how the intranet can be something more than simply a way to share information; rather it can be used to help manage learning within an organization and makes it far easier to implement training and development initiatives.
Rapid e‐learning software: what should we be looking for?
Authors: Alcock Mike
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide learning and development professionals with a succinct overview of what they should expect from any rapid e‐learning software.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a viewpoint on rapid e‐learning software.

Findings

The paper makes a sound case for investment in rapid e‐learning software. It cites a number of key drivers including the ever‐reducing lead times for new e‐learning; the savings that can be made and the control that can be regained by developing product in‐house. Any rapid authoring tool should enable the user to create a simple course within minutes of launching the software. In addition, it should provide the following features as a minimum: intuitive user interface; interactivity with other applications; options for collaborative working – e.g. server side development; accessibility and good after sales support. The paper goes on to explore some of the additional characteristics that provide greater value and emphasizes the speed at which these products are changing, making it imperative that learning and development professionals keep themselves up to date with the changing marketplace.

Practical implications

For anyone looking to source authoring tools, this article gives invaluable advice on the features any purchase should provide. It will particularly assist those with little experience in the area as well as providing timely reminders and suggestions for those more familiar with the world of e‐learning software.

Originality/value

It highlights the benefits and features that should without question be incorporated into any rapid e‐learning software and identifies a number of examples of added value features that buyers should look out for.
Personal technology orientation in R&D: a tool to intensify organizational learning
Authors: Manaikkamäkl Pauliina
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper introduces a tool to intensify organizational learning during a new technology development process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a participatory approach and a series of interviews carried out in five new technology development case projects in the field of wireless communication. The paper reflects the findings to one case study.

Findings

The paper introduces the concept of a personal technology orientation as a practical tool for managers and other key persons to intensify an organization's learning process in adopting new technology solutions by offering important data in a right form for every person.

Practical implications

The paper has real practical implications for leaders/managers and learning and development professionals in field of technology development.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information for managers in the area of technology development or technology management.
The archetype of excellence in universities and TQM
Authors: Anninos Loukas N.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to present and interpret excellence through the parchments of the ancient Hellenic philosophy and the different schools of management thought and its application in the university context.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken in the paper is theoretical and is based on the writings of ancient Hellenes philosophers and management researchers, a semasiologic analysis of the term “excellence” in Hellenic and its content in the university context and a comparison with the basic principles of total quality management (TQM).

Findings

The findings of the paper support the view that the ancient Hellenes philosophers had a substantial contribution in the development of excellence and TQM fundamental concepts, as proved by their writings 2,400 years ago. It is worth mentioning that the termaristeia(excellence, in Hellenic) hides in it, as appears from the analysis of the word, the idea of good in an exemplary way and the factors that constitute the teachings of TQM.

Practical implications

The paper brings out the essence of excellence and proves that deep understanding of the concept of excellence leads to a virtuous personal life which leads in good citizenship in the wider social context that result in a constantly improving and transformative academic or professional life.

Originality/value

The paper presents the meaning of excellence through the combination of knowledge from the ancient Hellenic philosophy, management, Hellenic language and TQM.
OM of manufacturing: exploring futuristic manufacturing perspectives
Authors: Check Teck Foo
Published: September 2007

Purpose

Technology is fast transforming how we supply both services and products. With virtual reality technology rapidly becoming available and much user friendlier and affordable than before, the next challenge is to supply not just products but also dreams. The purpose here is to explore the possibilities in manufacturing the dreams of customers.

Design/methodology/approach

Instead of literature from psychology, the paper taps on deep Indian philosophy to explore the unconscious. For the unconscious is the source of dreams. The ancient, Indian OM is widely accepted in spiritual circles as the primordial sound of the universe. Using this OM symbol as a metaphor, the paper suggests that deep dimensions of competition – and roots for future excellence – may lie in creating products that are the dreams of customers.

Findings

The paper then explores from the ancient Indian conceptualization of dreams to the current practices in supplying products to customers. It finds large corporations are more members of a supply or rather, innovation driven chain. That is despite being in an age of knowledge‐driven economy. Perhaps, the chain is too rigid, sequential a word. A better metaphor may be as part of a molecular structure, one that interconnects one organization with several other firms globally.

Research limitations/implications

The community of global manufacturers has yet to realize that the key driver behind the customers' relentless pursuit of quality and low prices – and as is argued here, increasingly, their dreams – may lie deeply hidden within the realms of their unconscious.

Practical implications

What is emerging is a triangulated polarization in terms of organizing of functions: conceptualization of product in the USA, with services (soft but labor intensive aspects) in India and the hard, implementation and manufacturing as well as production routed to China. The full impact of what is raised in this paper will be realized later as and when global manufacturers seek to conceptualize products not just for the US markets but also for the swelling demand in China and India.

Originality/value

With the rapid rise of both Indian and Chinese economies with enormous impact on global management, it is essential for scholars to integrate ancient philosophy. Given the tremendous pressures to meet demand of the future, interactions‐oriented, internet‐based customers, manufacturing organizations may have to design newer, technology‐enabling forms for the organizing of the dreams of customers.
Historical origins and development of economic rationalism
Authors: Gates Donald K. , Steane Peter
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to trace the development of economic theory to the point where “economic rationalism” is a commonly used term.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on earlier research and published works examining: the history of economics; economic rationalism; and the different influences in comprising basic economic concepts.

Findings

The analysis of writing indicates that rationalism has been a focus of discussion in economic writing since Classical times, through to the “rational” influence in economic policy making from neoclassical economic writing. But, the specific term “economic rationalism” gained wider usage after Pusey's book. From that time, the term was used outside academia as a disparaging means to criticise economic theorists and policy makers.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by the ability to examine all the literature in the field in greater depth. However, this has been ameliorated by examining a sufficient sample of literature relevant to the concept of rationality in economic theory and policy.

Practical implications

This paper provides a useful critique – from the classics to the modern era – of the contribution made to economic theory and practice. It provides managers with a comprehensive historical overview.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need and gives support to executives and managers who have doubts about theological justification for some values and accountability procedures being employed in policymaking.
Excellence – 25 years evolution
Authors: Mi Dahlgaard‐Park Su , Dahlgaard Jens J.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss/reflect on some well‐known excellence frameworks or models in order to understand the development in the contents of excellence during the last 25 years and to understand the problems or limitations which such kind of models still may have.

Design/methodology/approach

The studies examine some leading excellence frameworks and models and discuss/identify their strengths as well as weaknesses. The chosen models and frameworks are Peters' and Waterman's eight excellence attributes (1982), Peter's and Austin's simplified excellence model (1985), lists of best practices (1998), Xerox excellence models (1990, 2002), the European excellence model (1992), Dahlgaard‐Park and Dahlgaard's 4P model (1999, 2004) and Toyota's 4P model.

Findings

Generally, excellence models and frameworks are inspired by the Japanese practices and they recognize the importance of the soft dimension of organizational realities. However, there are tendencies to interpret these models from reductionist and positivistic view and ignore the human aspect and the soft dimension when organizations try to implement the model in their struggle to achieve excellence. 4P model and the four aspects of organizational realities can reduce these negative tendencies.

Originality/value

The study documents how the selected leading models and frameworks about excellence have been developed and practiced during the last 25 years with identification of each frameworks background, strengths and limitations.
From total quality management to corporate sustainability based on a stakeholder management
Authors: Zink Klaus J.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the development of total quality management (TQM) from the very beginning to the present and to give a proposal for a redefinition for the future.

Design/methodology/approach

To reach this purpose, experiences and problems from the past are described and corporate sustainability as a new frame discussed.

Findings

Many attempts to imitate the “Japanese Way” in Western companies failed, because they were only using some instruments (often focused on product quality) and not understanding the necessity of a fundamental change of culture. Globalization and international competition lead to the introduction of National Quality Awards and their use by a growing number of companies. But the term of “quality” was not promoting these concepts, therefore all international award models do not use the term quality any longer. And as TQM has also been driven by consultants, many companies gave up this approach. As the contents of TQM are still a necessity for any organization, one has to look for a new headline representing identical contents. Using, e.g. the early ISO definition of TQM one can see that sustainable success has been related to a stakeholder approach. Therefore, corporate sustainability based on a stakeholder approach would be a future‐oriented concept to replace the name of TQM – but not the content.

Originality/value

This paper shows a new – or until now not extensively discussed – perspective for the understanding of TQM.
Forecasting the technology revolution
Authors: Halal William E.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This article gives managers and executives a way to think about how their organizations can benefit from the technology revolution.

Design/methodology/approach

Results are presented of an improved Delphi forecasting method that forecasts breakthroughs in all fields of science and technology.

Findings

Breakthroughs are expected that will transform business over the next 20 years.

Practical implications

Managers should develop a similar system to guide their strategic planning and product development.

Originality/value

An improved Delphi method has been used to pool the knowledge of 100 experts working online around the globe to forecast breakthroughs in all fields of science and technology. Results show that major advances are under way everywhere, which are likely to transform business and society over the next 20 years. Managers are shown how they can develop a similar method to guide their strategic planning and product development, thereby benefiting from the coming technology revolution.
Collaborative computing: a new management strategy for increasing productivity and building a better business
Authors: Attaran Mohsen
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to discuss the evolution of the collaborative computing technology and highlight major benefits of using this technology in small and medium‐sized firms. The trends in collaborative products and services and some of the collaborative computing products generating the most interest will be examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a general review.

Findings

This paper concludes that collaborative computing technology or “groupware” is firmly establishing itself as the way forward for successful and sustainable business operations. Collaborative computing programs are becoming a viable option for most small and mid‐sized businesses. They enable a company to increase efficiency, improve productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality by enabling the group to achieve superior decisions and solutions.

Originality/value

This paper provides practitioners with examinations of some of the collaborative computing products generating the most interest.
Knowledge integration through networked strategic communities: two case studies in Japan
Authors: Shibata Tomoatsu , Kodama Mitsuru
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The article seeks to provide new practical viewpoints regarding the knowledge management and organizational development of new product development through in‐depth case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to the exploratory nature of this research and our interest in identifying the main people, events, activities and influences that affect the progress of product innovation, the authors selected the grounded theory style of data interpretation. The authors present a basic framework in which the integration of various organizational boundaries between heterogeneous organizations both inside and outside corporations creates new knowledge.

Findings

These case studies illustrate the dynamism in which new knowledge is created by simultaneously promoting the formation of a horizontally integrated network among strategic communities between external partners including customers and a vertically integrated network among strategic communities within the corporation.

Originality/value

Provides new practical viewpoints regarding the knowledge management and strategy of technology management.
Strategic implications of nanotechnology
Authors: Kessler Eric H. , Charles Michael
Published: September 2007

Purpose

Nanotechnology, the ability to manipulate materials on the atomic and molecular level, and thus create novel structures and materials, is at the forefront of a paradigm shift whose impact may equal or surpass that of computers and the internet. To cope with this new environment, companies will have to consider new business models, policies, and sources of competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

In this article we examine nanotechnology's potential effect on business strategy, focusing on industry life cycles, strategic groups, environmental forces, and strategic implementation. Several companies involved in nanotechnology are examined, such as IBM, HP, SkyPharma, and Lucent Technologies.

Findings

Numerous conclusions can be inferred from our analyses. First, a company must formulate and execute a dynamic strategic approach to nanotechnology or suffer the consequences. Second, this approach must be reconciled with the strategic group to which the company strives. Third, firms will need to align their business strategies with the changing social, legal, and political forces in the new environment in order to compete successfully. Fourth, companies should leverage research and development efforts in nanotechnology to implement improvements in quality, efficiency, identity and the satisfaction of customer needs.

Practical implications

Companies and leaders alike must be prepared to explore this frontier prudently and strategically to make right decisions for their organizations' success.

Originality/value

Ultimately the article seeks to prompt an understanding of the truly significant potential of nanotechnology to revolutionize industries and businesses, and subsequently firms' strategic paradigms.
On financial strategy
Authors: Calandro Joseph , Flynn Robert
Published: September 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to introduce the “Financial Strategy Framework”.

Design/methodology/approach

During the course of the authors' ongoing financial management research, it was observed that leading academicians frequently integrate finance and strategy in interesting ways. Similarly, many top executives and firms tend to blend strategy and finance in highly productive ways. Nevertheless, the critical functions of finance and strategy are regularly practiced in isolation. This disconnect led the authors to design the framework presented here.

Findings

The key insight of the approach is that the efficient management of the interactions of strategy, resource allocation and performance measurement can generate more value over time than any of these disciplines taken in isolation. The approach presented is not merely the linkage of three critically important disciplines, but rather a way of capitalizing on the interactions of each within a comprehensive framework.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the approach presented are a strategy that clearly guides production, resources that are allocated to efficiently execute strategic initiatives and performance measurement that serves as a cohesive management and feedback system rather than simply a method of reward/punishment. The research implications could be significant in that they could lead to interdisciplinary case and statistical studies.

Originality/value

While this article builds on earlier theoretical and practical work, it is the first to the outline the approach to financial strategy in the manner presented here.
Synthetic (integrative) project management: an idea whose time has come
Authors: Pourdehnad John
Published: September 2007

Purpose

To propose a complementary approach to traditional project management competency training, and approach that is based on a different worldview.

Design/methodology/approach

The research for this paper was based primarily on literature searches as well as conducting interviews with a number of project managers.

Findings

The current approach has limitations. Generally, it is good for doing projects in a stable environment.

Research limitations/implications

The new model for project management could be tested and compared to the traditional model.

Practical implications

The practical implication/consequence is an improvement in the project performance. Specifically, the new approach requires the project managers to mange the interaction of the parts of the project rather than managing each part separately.

Originality/value

The problem with project performance is paradigmatic, i.e. using a wrong mindset.
Learn how to grab others' knowledge to do your job properly
Authors: Jasimuddin Sajjad M.
Published: September 2007

Purpose

This paper addresses the ways in which a prospective knowledge user can approach seeking a potential contributor's knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were collected in 2004 using semi‐structured interviews from a large multinational corporation situated in the UK.

Findings

The main findings of the paper suggest that context and content – such as status of the knowledge contributor, personal preference of superior, intimacy with the knowledge provider, trust between the actors, and criticalness of the technical query – have a great role to play when asking for technical help.

Research limitations/implications

The paper ignores to identify the determinants of the selection of knowledge transfer mechanisms, which is an interesting area of future research for academicians.

Practical implications

The paper will help organizational members to consider the contexts before approaching their colleagues for a technical advice.

Originality/value

The paper is of value to practitioners because it develops a view of grabbing others' knowledge without hesitation.
NETWORK EXTERNALITIES AND COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGE
Authors: Kikuchi Toru
Published: September 2007

In this article, I examine how the network externalities of communications activities and trading opportunities interact to determine the structure of comparative advantage. These interactions are examined by constructing a two‐country, three‐sector model of trade involving a country‐specific communications network sector. The role of the connectivity of network providers, which allows users of a network to communicate with users of another network, is also explored.
Mutations of the epidermal growth factor receptor gene and related genes as determinants of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors sensitivity in lung cancer
Authors: Mitsudomi Tetsuya , Yatabe Yasushi
Published: September 2007

Recent discovery of mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in lung adenocarcinoma greatly stimulated biomarker research on predictive factors for EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), such as gefitinib and erlotinib. Although patients with activating mutations of the EGFR generally respond to EGFR TKIs very well, it is natural to assume that there is no sole determinant, considering great complexity and redundancy of the EGFR pathway. Subsequently, roles of different types of EGFR mutations or mutations of genes that are members of the EGFR pathway such as KRAS and HER2 have been evaluated. In this review, we summarize the recent findings about how mutations of the EGFR and related genes affect sensitivity to EFGR‐TKIs. We also discuss molecular mechanisms of acquired resistance to EGFR‐TKIs that is almost inevitable in EGFR‐TKI therapy. The door for genotype‐based treatment of lung cancer is beginning to open, and through these efforts, it will be possible to slow the progression of lung cancer and eventually, to decrease mortality from lung cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1817–1824)
Analysis of the complete hepatitis B virus genome in patients with genotype C chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Kai Yu , Imazeki Fumio , Fukai Kenichi , Arai Makoto , Kanda Tatsuo , Mikata Rintaro , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: September 2007

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C and the basic core promoter (BCP) mutations were reported to be associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study the full sequences of HBV genomes were analyzed in order to find the other predictors of HCC development. We determined the full sequences of HBV genomes in 24 genotype C carriers who developed HCC (HCC group) at the beginning of follow‐up and at the time of HCC diagnosis, and 20 patients who did not develop HCC (non‐HCC group) served as a control. The number of nucleotide and amino acid substitutions in most regions was higher in the HCC group than in the non‐HCC group, and the following substitutions and deletions were found more frequently in the HCC group than in the non‐HCC group: G1317A and T1341C/A/G in the X promoter region were detected in 13 and six of the HCC cases, four and none of the non‐HCC cases, respectively; and pre‐S2 deletion was detected in eight HCC and none of the non‐HCC cases. Compared with the wild type X promoter, the mutant type X promoters, M1 (G1317A), M2 (T1341C), and M4 (T1341G) showed increases in activity of 2.3, 3.8, and 1.4 times, respectively, in HepG2 cells. Substitutions and deletion of nucleotides of the HBV genome, especially the pre‐S2 deletion and G1317A and T1341C/A/G mutations may be useful markers for predicting the development of HCC. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1921–1929)
Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 oncogene partner as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for lung cancer
Authors: Mano Yuria , Takahashi Koji , Ishikawa Nobuhisa , Takano Atsushi , Yasui Wataru , Inai Kouki , Nishimura Hitoshi , Tsuchiya Eiju , Nakamura Yusuke , Daigo Yataro
Published: September 2007

To screen candidate molecules that might be useful as diagnostic biomarkers or for development of novel molecular‐targeting therapies, we previously carried out gene‐expression profile analysis of 101 lung carcinomas and detected an elevated expression of FGFR1OP (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 oncogene partner) in the majority of lung cancers. Immunohistochemical staining using tumor tissue microarrays consisting of 372 archived non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) specimens revealed positive staining of FGFR1OP in 334 (89.8%) of 372 NSCLCs. We also found that the high level of FGFR1OP expression was significantly associated with shorter tumor‐specific survival times (P < 0.0001 by log‐rank test). Moreover, multivariate analysis determined that FGFR1OP was an independent prognostic factor for surgically treated NSCLC patients (P < 0.0001). Treatment of lung cancer cells, in which endogenous FGFR1OP was overexpressed, using FGFR1OP siRNA, suppressed its expression and resulted in inhibition of the cell growth. Furthermore, induction of FGFR1OP increased the cellular motility and growth‐promoting activity of mammalian cells. To investigate its function, we searched for FGFR1OP‐interacting proteins in lung cancer cells and identified ABL1 (Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1) and WRNIP1 (Werner helicase interacting protein 1), which was known to be involved in cell cycle progression. FGFR1OP significantly reduced ABL1‐dependent phosphorylation of WRNIP1 and resulted in the promotion of cell cycle progression. Because our data imply that FGFR1OP is likely to play a significant role in lung cancer growth and progression, FGFR1OP should be useful as a prognostic biomarker and probably as a therapeutic target for lung cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1902–1913)
Pharmacological characterization of MP‐412 (AV‐412), a dual epidermal growth factor receptor and ErbB2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Authors: Suzuki Tsuyoshi , Fujii Akihiro , Ohya Junichi , Amano Yusaku , Kitano Yasunori , Abe Daisuke , Nakamura Hideo
Published: September 2007

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and ErbB2 are currently recognized as validated target molecules in cancer treatment strategies. MP‐412 (AV‐412) is a potent dual inhibitor of EGFR and ErbB2 tyrosine kinases, including the mutant EGFRL858R,T790M, which is clinically resistant to the EGFR‐specific kinase inhibitors erlotinib and gefitinib. In an enzyme assay, MP‐412 inhibited the EGFR variants and ErbB2 in the nanomolar range with over 100‐fold selectivity compared with other kinases, apart from abl and flt‐1, which were both moderately sensitive to the compound. In cells, MP‐412 inhibited autophosphorylation of EGFR and ErbB2 with IC50 of 43 and 282 nM, respectively. It also inhibited epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐dependent cell proliferation with an IC50 of 100 nM. Moreover, MP‐412 abrogated EGFR signaling in the gefitinib‐resistant H1975 cell line, which harbors a double mutation of L858R and T790M in EGFR. In animal studies using cancer xenograft models, MP‐412 (30 mg/kg) demonstrated complete inhibition of tumor growth of the A431 and BT‐474 cell lines, which overexpress EGFR and ErbB2, respectively. MP‐412 suppressed autophosphorylation of EGFR and ErbB2 at the dose corresponding to its antitumor efficacy. When various dosing schedules were applied, MP‐412 showed significant effects with daily and every‐other‐day schedules, but not with a once‐weekly schedule, suggesting that frequent dosing is preferable for this compound. Furthermore, MP‐412 showed a significant antitumor effect on the ErbB2‐overexpressing breast cancer KPL‐4 cell line, which is resistant to gefitinib. These studies indicate that MP‐412 has potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancers expressing EGFR and ErbB2, especially those resistant to the first generation of small‐molecule inhibitors. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1977–1984)
Recombinant interleukin‐12 and interleukin‐18 antitumor therapy in a guinea‐pig hepatoma cell implant model
Authors: Shiratori Ikuo , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Oshiumi Hiroyuki , Begum Nasim A. , Ebihara Takashi , Matsumoto Misako , Hazeki Kaoru , Kodama Ken , Kashiwazaki Yasuo , Seya Tsukasa
Published: September 2007

Interleukin (IL)‐12 and IL‐18 are secreted by myeloid cells activated with adjuvants such as Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) cell wall. They induce T‐helper 1 polarization in the host immune system and upregulate production of lymphocyte interferon‐γ, which leads to the induction of an antitumor gene program. It has been reported that humans have an immune system that more closely resembles that of the guinea pig in adjuvant‐response features rather than the mouse system, which prevents the mouse results being extrapolated to human immunotherapy. Here we have constructed a tumor‐implant system in guinea pigs to evaluate the antitumor potential of guinea pig IL‐12 (gpIL‐12) and guinea pig IL‐18 (gpIL‐18). Purified recombinant gpIL‐12 and gpIL‐18 were prepared and applied intraperitoneally to tumor‐bearing (line 10 hepatoma) guinea pigs as the basis of the adjuvant immunotherapy. Intraperitoneal administration of gpIL‐12 and gpIL‐18 led to retardation of primary tumor growth and suppression of lymph‐node metastasis in tumor‐bearing guinea pigs. The permissible range of IL‐12 appeared wider in guinea pigs than in mice. Even at an IL‐12 dose higher than that in mice, there was no evidence of side‐effects until day 26, when the guinea pigs were killed. gpIL‐18 augmented the antitumor effect of gpIL‐12 but exerted less ability to suppress lymph‐node metastasis. The effects of gpIL‐12 and gpIL‐18 on the tumors implanted in guinea pigs will encourage us to use IL‐12‐ and IL‐18‐inducible adjuvants for immunotherapy in human patients with solid cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1936–1942)
Population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis for time courses of docetaxel‐induced neutropenia in Japanese cancer patients
Authors: Ozawa Kazuhiro , Minami Hironobu , Sato Hitoshi
Published: September 2007

The present study describes a population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis based on data obtained from cancer patients treated with docetaxel at the National Cancer Center Hospital East in Japan. Docetaxel was infused intravenously over 1 h every 3 weeks, and time courses of absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) for a total of 395 observations (62 patients) were analyzed using a semimechanistic‐physiological PK/PD model in the NONMEM program. The prominent feature of our PK/PD model is that it has the capability to predict a temporary increase in ANC. Among 10 patient factors, α1‐acid glycoprotein was selected as a significant covariate for drug effect as the increase in α1‐acid glycoprotein was negatively correlated with the drug effect. Goodness‐of‐fit plots indicated that the model fitted well with the observed data, and the bootstrap method guaranteed robustness of the model. In conclusion, we developed a novel population PK/PD model that can adequately analyze ANC profiles after docetaxel administration in oncology practice, where temporary but consistent increases in ANC were observed. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1985–1992)
Potent inhibition of in vivo angiogenesis and tumor growth by a novel cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, enoic acanthoic acid
Authors: Jung Hye Jin , Shim Joong Sup , Suh Young‐Ger , Kim Young‐Myeong , Ono Mayumi , Kwon Ho Jeong
Published: September 2007

Recent studies have shown that cyclooxygenase‐2 is crucially involved in angiogenesis. In fact, several specific cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors suppress angiogenesis in vivo, suggesting that cyclooxygenase‐2 is a promising target for the treatment of angiogenesis‐related diseases. In the present study we investigate the activity of a new cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, enoic acanthoic acid (EAA), which was synthesized from the known natural cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, acanthoic acid (AA). The demonstration of a high correlation between EAA‐ and celecoxib‐induced gene expression signatures in microarray experiments validated the specificity of EAA on cyclooxygenase‐2. In angiogenesis assays, EAA potently inhibited basic fibroblast growth factor‐induced invasion and tube formation of bovine aortic endothelial cells in vitro. Moreover, this inhibitor prevented both neovascularization of the chorioallantoic membrane of growing chick embryo and basic fibroblast growth factor‐induced mouse corneal angiogenesis in vivo. EAA also significantly suppressed the growth of bladder tumors in a mouse model, showing better antitumor activity than celecoxib. Furthermore, gelatin zymogram analysis revealed that EAA potently inhibited the activities of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9. These results clearly demonstrate that EAA is a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of angiogenesis‐related diseases including cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1943–1948)