bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Properties of a Developed Questionnaire to Assess Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) Regarding Vitamin D Nutrition
Authors: Amiri Parisa , Asghari Golaleh , Sadrosadat Hoda , Karimi Mehrdad , Amouzegar Atieh , Mirmiran Parvin , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to develop a valid and reliable questionnaire to assess vitamin D-related knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) in Iranian adults who may be at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. This study was conducted on 527 subjects, aged ≥20 years from Public health care centers in Tehran, Iran. Based on results of literature review and in-depth interviews, the 38-item vitamin D-related KAP questionnaire with four subscale was developed: 1) general knowledge; 2) nutritional knowledge; 3) attitudes; 4) behaviors. Validity of the developed vitamin D-KAP questionnaire was assessed, utilizing face, content, and construct validity methods. Internal consistency was calculated to assess reliability of the current developed questionnaire. A total of 572 (54.1% female) adults, aged 30.2±7.9 years, participated in the study. All items were perceived as relevant and comprehendible by participants. Content validity was confirmed by the panel of experts. The internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, exceeded the minimum reliability standard of 0.60 for four subscales. The EFA suggested a four-factor construct and the results of the CFA indicated acceptable fit indices for the proposed model. No ceiling effects were observed except for general knowledge (1.2%). Floor effects detected were 0, 1.1, 2.4, and 8.7% for practice, attitude, general knowledge, and nutrition knowledge, respectively. General knowledge had the highest score (79.59±14.52) and nutrition knowledge, the lowest score (42.58±20.40) among the four sub-scales. Results confirm the initial validity and reliability of the vitamin D-related knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire. Further investigations in different urban and rural population are recommended.
A System Dynamic Model for Sustainable Ecotourism in Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Lola Muhamad Safiih , Hussin Mohd Fadli , Yusoff Izham Mohamad , Ramlee Mohd Noor Afiq , Isa Siti Hanani , Kamil Anton Abdulbasah , A. Khadar Nur Zafirah , Abdullah Mohd Tajuddin
Published: February 2017

The sustainability of ecotourism is the backbone of tourism development of a country. Ecotourism can contribute to both conservation and development in which involves dynamic relationship between tourism, biodiversity and communities, facilitate by great management. The purpose of this study is to analyze the dimensions of the socio-economic and environmental impacts of ecotourism in communities surrounding the Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu, Malaysia. This study provides a framework for the development and evaluation of ecotourism. The framework will determine if the relationships between indicators are positively correlated which will result in positive contribution to the other by using System Dynamic. Socio-cultural and economic data will be collected through interviews and group discussions in selected communities in Tasik Kenyir. Data on wildlife will be extracted from secondary data from Kenyir Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu. The data analysis will explore the socio-cultural and economic differences between and within different communities due to ecotourism development, the contribution of ecotourism to conservation activities, local support for conservation and ecotourism as well as the influence of tourist activities on the distribution of wildlife species in Tasik Kenyir. This study aims to contribute toward understanding the natural resource community-ecotourism inter-relationship and help to bridge the knowledge gap that hinders biodiversity conservation initiatives. The findings will be used as a base for further development of ecotourism and will recommend alternative management options where necessary for the study area.
Salmonella Typhimurium Induces Cloacitis-Like Symptoms in Zebrafish Larvae
Authors: Varas Macarena , Ortíz-Severín Javiera , Marcoleta Andrés E. , Díaz-Pascual Francisco , Allende Miguel L. , Santiviago Carlos A. , Chávez Francisco P.
Published: February 2017

Pathogenic Salmonella strains have a set of virulence factors allowing them to generate systemic infections and damage in a variety of hosts. Among these factors, bacterial proteins secreted by specialized systems are used to penetrate the host’s intestinal mucosa, through the invasion and destruction of specialized epithelial M cells in the intestine. On the other hand, numerous studies have demonstrated that humans, as well as experimental animal hosts, respond to Salmonella infection by activating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Here, through live cell imaging of S. Typhimurium infection of zebrafish larvae, we showed that besides the intestinal colonization, a deformed cloacae region and a concomitant accumulation of S. Typhimurium cells was observed upon bacterial infection. The swelling led to a persistent inflammation of infected larvae, although the infection was non-lethal. The in vivo inflammation process was confirmed by the co-localization of GFP-tagged S. Typhimurium with mCherry-tagged neutrophils at 72 hours post exposition. Our live-cell analyses suggest that Salmonella Typhimurium induce cloacitis-like symptoms in zebrafish larvae.  Typhimurium induce cloacitis-like symptoms in zebrafish larvae.
Multi‐Year Microbial Source Tracking Study Characterizing Fecal Contamination in an Urban Watershed
Authors: Bushon Rebecca N. , Brady Amie M.G. , Christensen Eric D. , Stelzer Erin A.
Published: February 2017

Microbiological and hydrological data were used to rank tributary stream contributions of bacteria to the Little Blue River in Independence, Missouri. Concentrations, loadings and yields of E. coli and microbial source tracking (MST) markers, were characterized during base flow and storm events in five subbasins within Independence, as well as sources entering and leaving the city through the river. The E. coli water quality threshold was exceeded in 29% of base‐flow and 89% of storm‐event samples. The total contribution of E. coli and MST markers from tributaries within Independence to the Little Blue River, regardless of streamflow, did not significantly increase the median concentrations leaving the city. Daily loads and yields of E. coli and MST markers were used to rank the subbasins according to their contribution of each constituent to the river. The ranking methodology used in this study may prove useful in prioritizing remediation in the different subbasins.
An evaluation of the role and conduct of multinational corporations (MNCs) in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Hough Johan , Parker Andre , Neuland Ernst
Published: February 2017

“Africa‟s not for sissies” is what one often hears when discussing business conditions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the good news is that the new millennium increasingly exhibits significant trends in support of the notion that a reversal of SSA‟s fortunes is underway: annual GDP growth in the region is well ahead of the global average, civil wars in the region have largely come to an end and, for two years running, private equity investment flows into the region have surpassed that of foreign aid, Africa‟s traditional „crutch‟. Importantly, a small band of early-mover Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are making their presence felt in the region and beginning to make good profits. These firms include the likes of Diageo, The Coca-Cola Company, MTN and SABMiller. The purpose of this article is to research the nature and the changing face of the MNC, impact on globalization and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and some MNC strategies to enter foreign markets.
The impact of litigation risk on corporate prospective disclosure: A review of the empirical literature
Authors: Gallery Gerry , Nelson Jodie , Guo Chan
Published: February 2017

We review the literature on the impact of litigation risk (a form of external governance) on corporate prospective disclosure decisions as reflected in management earnings forecasts. From this analysis we identify four key areas for future research. First, litigation risk warrants more attention from researchers; currently it tends to be treated as a secondary factor impacting MEF decisions. Second, it would be informative from a governance perspective for researchers to explore why litigation risk has a differential impact on MEF decisions across countries. Third, understanding the interaction between litigation risk and forecast/firm-specific characteristics is important from management, investor and regulatory perspectives but is currently under-explored Last, research on the litigation risk and MEF attributes link is piecemeal and incomplete, requiring more integrated and expanded analysis.
Banking sector reforms in Kenya: Progress and challenges
Authors: Nyasha Sheilla , Odhiambo Nicholas M.
Published: February 2017

This paper gives an overview of the banking sector in Kenya; it highlights the reforms since the country‟s independence in 1963; it tracks the growth of the banking sector in response to the reforms implemented over the past four decades; and finally, it highlights the challenges facing the banking sector in Kenya. The country‟s banking sector consists of more than 40 commercial banks, with the Central Bank of Kenya, which is the country‟s central bank, at the apex. Since the 1980s, the Kenyan government has implemented a number of banking sector reforms – in order to safeguard and improve the banking sector. The response to these reforms by the banking sector has been varied. As a result of these reforms, there has been a shift in the dominance from the State-owned banks to the private commercial banks. There has also been an improvement in the Central Bank‟s oversight of the financial institutions, and an enforcement of the banks‟ capital-adequacy requirements. By the standards of African countries, Kenya currently has one of the most developed banking systems in Africa. The country has enjoyed a substantial bank-based financial sector development over the years, and its institutional framework has also grown stronger. However, like many other developing countries‟ financial systems, the Kenyan banking system still faces wide-ranging challenges, such as high interest rate spreads and financial inclusion challenges
Assessing functional dimensions of organisational effectiveness
Authors: Parumasur Sanjana Brijball , Govender Patsy
Published: February 2017

This quantitative, cross-sectional study aims to assess the effectiveness of five dimensions that play a critical role in organisational development and effectiveness (people, finance, marketing, operations/service and corporate/business development) in order to identify shortfalls and suggest corrective actions. The population comprised of all staff in a provincial trade and investment promotion agency in South Africa and a consensus approach was used through a cluster sampling technique which secured an 85.4% response rate. Data was collected using questionnaires and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The psychometric properties (validity and reliability) of the questionnaires were statistically determined using Factor Analysis and Cronbach’s Coefficient Alpha. The results indicate that employees perceive the five dimensions of organisational effectiveness in varying degrees. The dimension perceived to be functioning most effectively and having the least degree of shortfalls is corporate/business development and the dimension requiring the greatest degree of improvement is finance, negligibly followed by marketing. Significant intercorrelations exist amongst these five dimensions, except for people and corporate/business development. Based on the results, recommendations are graphically depicted for the areas of improvement, which when effectively implemented has the potential to enhance the realisation of goals in each of the dimensions and overall organisational effectiveness
An analysis of the corporate governance practices of smaller listed Australian companies
Authors: Plastow Kevin , Gallery Gerry , Gallery Natalie
Published: February 2017

We examine the corporate governance environment of smaller listed Australian firms to investigate the factors that determine how firms respond to recommendations contained in corporate governance codes. We group corporate governance recommendations into three distinct categories and argue that differences in adoption costs between categories, together with firm specific factors, determine a firm’s decision to conform with the recommendation or to explain the reasons for non-conformance. Analysis of the conformance by smaller firms with governance recommendations highlights substantial differences in adoption rates between categories of recommendations. Our results also reveal that the cost of adopting specific recommendations, together with profitability, external audit quality, and ownership dispersion, jointly explain a firm’s decision to ‘comply or explain’. This study provides insights for policy makers and regulators regarding the appropriateness of corporate governance recommendations for smaller firms
Employee perceptions of the restructuring process in a health care environment
Authors: Ntsatsi Lisebo , Parumasur Sanjana Brijball
Published: February 2017

This study assesses the perceptions of employees (in a health care environment that has just undergone a process of restructuring) of the process before restructuring, the impact of the restructuring on service delivery and performance as well as of outcomes, strategies and interventions implemented. A sample of 143 clinical and non-clinical employees from three of the largest regional hospitals within the Ministry of Health in Lesotho was drawn using cluster sampling. Data was collected using a questionnaire whose psychometric properties were statistically determined. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicate that employees were not convinced that the process of transformation undertaken in the health care organization was effective and, hence recommendations are made in this regard.
Employee involvement and work team effectiveness: Biographical influences
Authors: Mahabeer Melissa , Govender Patsy
Published: February 2017

This aim of this study was to determine the biographical influences on employee involvement and work team effectiveness. Data for the study was collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A sample of 150 employees was drawn using the stratified random sampling. Significant differences were found with the participative decision-making sub-dimension of employee involvement and length in service. Significant differences were found with both participative decision-making and job satisfaction, and gender. No significant differences surfaced with work team effectiveness and the biographical profiles. The literature review is followed by the results of the study. The study provides a guide for organizations to rethink and find ways to reach a solution building work environment
Can coopetition be source of competitive advantage for strategic networks?
Authors: Della Corte Valentina , Sciarelli Mauro
Published: February 2017

Contributions on competitive strategy and advantage have been long concentrated on the single firm. In Europe small and medium enterprises still prevail, business districts are widespread and rivals are called to cooperate, in order to face the global context. Inter-firm collaboration seems to be the main path to survive and compete. Literature has more concentrated on the reasons for success of strategic alliances and networks even if many of them fail or do not take off. In the light of relational view and the absorptive capacity approach, the paper tries to verify whether coopetiton, can be, through the relations that generates, source of competitive advantage or rather of disadvantage. Theoretical hints are tested empirically on a sample of firms in Italy operating in tourism industry
Analysts’ distorted valuation of hi-tech stocks
Authors: Cervellati Enrico Maria
Published: February 2017

This paper aims to examine the distorted valuations of internet companies during the dot.com bubble. The analysis is performed through a clinical study of Tiscali, the most known Italian internet company at the time. First, its IPO is presented, underlining the presence of the three typical phenomena: the decision to go public during a hot issue market, the initial underpricing, and the long run underperformance. Second, a content analysis of the reports issued by analysts in the period 1999-2001 shows the most common mistakes in using relative market valuation techniques. Third, an event study analysis shows the market reaction following acquisition deals announcements was often driven by irrational exuberance during the internet craze, but also that after the bubble burst the market eventually understood analysts over optimism. Other behavioral biases like overconfidence, but also heuristics like anchoring are discussed in the paper, as well as the need for analysts’ to insert in their toolbox new instruments provided by the behavioral finance literature.
An explanatory model of South African yellow maize futures prices
Authors: Tonder S. Van , Van Rooyen J.H.
Published: February 2017

This study attempts to identify the important variables that may affect yellow maize futures prices in the South African derivatives market. Data was obtained from the South African Futures Exchange, a division of the Johannesburg Securities Exchange. Weekly data on the rand-dollar exchange rates were obtained from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). Monthly data regarding import volumes, export volumes, maize consumption and maize stocks in South Africa are available from South African Grain Information Service (SAGIS). Fifteen variables that may be used to forecast futures prices were identified from theory and similar studies. A correlation matrix of these variables with maize futures prices was determined at the 5% significance level. After applying various statistical analyses to test for autocorrelations, stationarity etc., only four variables were left with which to model the futures prices. The R2 of the remaining variables was only 12.21%, indicating a low goodness of fit. Applying the regression model to the ex-post prices clearly indicated that these variables that were identified do not adequately explain the movement in the futures prices. The primary reasons for the low accuracy of the model may be due to the use of the weather index for SA alone (a small contributor in a global market) and the linearity assumption underlying the selected dependant and independent variables may also be unrealistic. Further research is therefore needed to identify more appropriate variables with which to model yellow maize futures prices.
The code of corporate governance in Nigeria: Efficiency gains or social legitimation?
Authors: Okike Elewechi , Adegbite Emmanuel
Published: February 2017

This paper is the first study which examines the rationale behind the adoption of corporate governance codes, the requirements of the codes and their operationalisation, and the effectiveness of the codes in addressing corporate governance abuses in the turbulent and endemically corrupt environment of sub Saharan Africa (Nigeria). It examines the extent to which the adopted Codes of Corporate Governance is as a result of international pressures or internally driven by the need for effective accountability to the shareholders, in a way which addresses the peculiar problems of corporate governance in Nigeria. Through the theoretical lens of efficiency gains and social legitmation, the paper found that the Code of Best Practices for Corporate Governance in Nigeria is driven more by social legitimacy pressures while the Code of Corporate Governance for Banks in Nigeria Post Consolidation, developed by the CBN, is predominantly aimed at pursuing efficiency gains.
The ownership structure, the board of directors and the corporate performance: Complementarity or substitutability? Evidence from companies listed on Abu Dhabi stock exchange
Authors: Ellili Nejla Ould Daoud
Published: February 2017

This study investigates the interrelations between the ownership structure, the board of directors and the performance of the companies using annual data for 33 companies listed on Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange during the period 2007 - 2009. The system of the simultaneous equations shows important interrelations between the managerial ownership and board of directors’ characteristics. The managerial ownership appears substitutable to the blockholders ownership, institutional ownership and the board size while it is complementary to the board duality. Our results show also that the board duality and the financial policy of the company are substitutable, while the blockholders ownership, the institutional and the board size are complementary governance mechanisms. Our empirical results show also that the relationship between the managerial ownership and the corporate performance is not significant and that the managerial ownership is endogenous and it depends, among others, on the corporate performance. Moreover, the blockholders ownership, the institutional ownership and the board size have all negative impacts on the performance, while the board duality, the age and the firm size guarantee a better performance of the company.
Gains and payments of mergers and acquisitions: Further evidence from the UK
Authors: Sherif Mohamed
Published: February 2017

Using the UK data and the standard Event Study methodology framework, the wealth effects of target and acquiring companies involved in merger and acquisition activities over the period from 2000 to 2010 is investigated. Further, we extend our analysis to examine the financing payments of M&A transactions using various test models, namely the size-deciles (SD) control model, Hoare-Govett small companies model, index model (IM), market model (MM) and the capital asset pricing model (CAPM). The results in general indicate that target companies obtain significantly positive and higher abnormal returns than those obtained by the UK acquirers. The results are positively associated with cash offers used in financing the merger and acquisition transactions. Consistent with previous studies we found no clear pattern of abnormal returns around the announcement period for the UK acquirers. Interestingly, the five different test models are generally found to produce similar levels of abnormal returns
Spin-offs and operating performance
Authors: Caton Gary L. , Goh Jeremy , Kerins Frank
Published: February 2017

This study examines the relation between changes in industry-adjusted operating performance associated with corporate spin-offs and the market’s assessment of the spin-off as either a value increasing or value decreasing activity. I find that the average change in industry-adjusted operating performance associated with my sample of spin-offs is not significantly different from zero. However, I also present evidence suggesting that this average result is misleading because some spin-offs appear to be value increasing while others are value decreasing. I establish that a positive and significant relation exists between parent company revaluation and a) the change in industry-adjusted operating performance of the combined but independent units, and, b) whether the parent and spun-off unit operated in different lines of business. Tests for the sensitivity of the results to underlying assumptions show that these results are robust. I conclude that some spin-offs create value, especially those in which the parent and the unit spun-off are in unrelated lines of business. However, I also conclude that some spin-offs destroy value.
Supervisory boards and their new role as a strategic business coach: opening the German black box of upper echelons
Authors: Eulerich Marc , Stiglbauer Markus
Published: February 2017

The board’s work is one of the most often discussed corporate governance mechanisms. Nevertheless, the board’s work often is considered a black box or a closed circle, too. The traditional view on German supervisory boards’ tasks within the two-tier system is the one as as a past-oriented supervisor of the management board. In light of the current financial crisis, the call for a general role transfer of German supervisory boards to pro-active, future-oriented/strategic business coaching is getting louder. An empirical study opening the German black box of upper echelons investigates if or/and how such a role transfer has already was carried out. Findings reveal that supervisory boards now actively advice the management board to build up and monitor strategic goals and react immediately case of evidence of a crisis. Moreover, supervisory boards do not longer exclusively consider financial key data but also qualitative data on human resources (e.g. skills/know-how) and sustainability issues (e.g. stakeholder integration) when evaluating strategies.
Institutional investors and acquisition targets
Authors: Qi Lily , Wan Hong
Published: February 2017

Firms with higher levels of institutional ownership are more likely to be acquired. This paper shows that this positive correlation is due to ownership endogeneity. Institutional investors are better informed investors and buy acquisition targets. After controlling for this ownership endogeneity, the presence of institutional investors reduces the probability of being acquired. Our result further shows that mutual funds or funds with high turnover rates are more likely to benefit from selective disclosure prior to Regulation Fair Disclosure and the presence of public pension funds increases the announcement premiums that targets receive, which indicates a monitoring effect.
An exploration into the dimensions of TQM aimed at creating models for the effective measurement of TQM.
Authors: Govender Patsy
Published: February 2017

Total Quality Management (TQM) is a comprehensive approach to ensuring employee involvement with the aim of improving corporate performance. It is highly congruent with organisation development approaches and values and when successfully implemented, TQM is tightly aligned with the organisation’s overall business strategy, maximises customer satisfaction and changes mindsets towards continuous quality improvement. This theoretical analysis aims to identify the dimensions that are critical for the effective measurement of TQM and then, to operationalise these dimensions into measurement criteria with the aim of creating models for practical application. The models will serve as a basis for the design of a valid and reliable measurement tool to assess the effectiveness of TQM in corporate environments
Determinants of the upswing phase in the South African real estate growth cycle
Authors: Franken Marika , Bloom Jonathan Z. , Lötter Rousseau
Published: February 2017

Understanding and predicting cycles in real estate prices would allow investors to maximise their investment in real estate. This paper builds on the work of a previous study and includes a regression analysis of the upswing phase of the residential real estate growth cycle, which is intended to identify potential leading indicators of an upswing phase in the residential real estate cycle. The results for the upswing phase indicate that house prices, interest rates, growth in household consumption, growth in the South African All Share Index and growth in the Rand-Dollar exchange rate, all lagged by one quarter could be considered to predict the upswing phase of house prices.
Corporate governance and performance: Empirical evidence from Italian airport industry
Authors: Rotondo Federico
Published: February 2017

This paper empirically examines the degree of maturity of corporate governance of Italian airport companies, after about twenty years from the beginning of the reform aimed at the privatization of the industry. Two corporate governance issues are investigated: i) the development of different corporate governance models by different categories of airports; ii) the relationship between corporate governance models and the technical and financial performance of Italian airport companies. For this reason two indexes have been developed to capture two corporate governance features such as decision-making power concentration and alignment to best practices. Then the correlation of corporate governance indexes with the efficiency, measured by using data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology, is tested on a significant sample of Italian airports
Private hospitals in South Africa: A compliance framework
Authors: Marx Johan , Mynhardt Ronald Henry
Published: February 2017

The primary compliance risks faced by private hospitals in South Africa were analysed. Compliance for private hospitals fell into three categories: patient care, regulatory compliance and human resources. The results of this study indicated that these hospitals are struggling to ensure compliance as a result of the complexity of and constant changes to applicable legislation. The study confirmed that private hospitals face compliance risk. A compliance framework was developed, which could reduce compliance risk of private hospitals in South Africa. Outsourcing could be considered in order to focus on core business activities and to reduce the cost of compliance.
The impact of good corporate governance practices on financial reporting quality: Empirical evidence from Jordanian listed companies
Authors: Abu-Risheh Khaled Erieg , Al-Sa’eed Mo’taz Amin
Published: February 2017

The main objective of this paper is to analyze the relationship between the good corporate governance practices on the financial reporting quality of Jordanian listed companies. Specifically, we focus on the board’s independence, board’s transparency, and separate audit committee. A listing of Share -Traded Jordanian Companies was available from the Amman Stock Exchange as of 31 December 2011. A total of (167) company shares were traded as of 31 of December 2011. It was decided to distribute (160) questionnaires to the related external auditors, the expertise members of the Audit Committees, and the Jordanian regulatory bodies that oversight the corporate reporting of those companies, which include the Jordanian Securities Commission, Insurance Commission, and Central Bank of Jordan. The empirical study is realized based on a sample of the companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange. Our research results shows that the good corporate governance practices impact the financial reporting quality, were Independence is considered one of the determinants of the success of financial reporting quality (T = 3.709, 008) and (R= 0.676), in addition to that; the independent variables are able to explain the variance in the dependent variable, a multiple regression test was carried out to test the relationship between board of directors’ transparency, board of directors’ independence, and audit committees, and financial reporting quality (FRQ), they are able to explain nearly 0.805% (R=0.805% P< 0.000) of the variance in financial reporting quality. The correlation analysis allows testing the strength of relationships between several independent variables and one dependent variable, which is the case in this study. The results of correlation analysis shows that the relationships between boards of directors’ transparency, board of directors’ independence, and separate audit committees, and the dependent variable which is financial reporting quality (FRQ), are significant.
The influence of cultural values on the board of directors: Lessons from five corporations
Authors: Satkunasingam Elsa , Yong Aaron , Cherk Sern
Published: February 2017

The Malaysian Code of Corporate Governance 2000 emphasises the monitoring role of the Board of Directors, especially that of independent directors. It has not however taken into account the cultural values in Malaysia which do not encourage differences of opinion or criticisms and has failed to provide sufficient safeguards for directors to exercise their role effectively. As a result, it is relatively easy for dominant Chairmen or CEOs especially in government-linked companies or CEO dominated companies to control the Board or senior management with very little opposition. This paper will discuss several incidences of financial mismanagement in companies caused by dominant directors with very little opposition from the rest of the board. It will highlight that the law has to take cultural values more seriously in order to equip the Board and especially independent directors with the ability to challenge dominant Board members.
Crime, security and firm performance in South Africa
Authors: Moyo Busani
Published: February 2017

We use cross sectional data from the World Bank enterprise surveys gathered in 2007 in South Africa’s four cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth) to assess the impact of business related crimes on firm performance proxied using firm sales. Using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Tobit model, we find that crime in the form of theft, robbery, arson and vandalism has a negative effect on sales and hence firm performance. However the impact of domestic shipment crime is mixed and varies from city to city depending on the magnitude of losses incurred by firms in each city. Results also show that crime is regressive in nature because crime related losses are relatively higher among small firms than large firms. The prevalence of crime amongst small firms and its negative effect on firm performance suggest the need for government and the business community to come together and develop security systems that are effective and affordable to small businesses. This is because, supporting small businesses is important for growth and employment creation
Dynamic capabilities: A still unexplored issue with growing complexity
Authors: Della Corte Valentina , Del Gaudio Giovanna
Published: February 2017

The aim of the paper is to carry out a literature review of studies on dynamic capabilities in order to find possible gaps that symbolize the current confusion around this research stream. The paper draws a systematic literature review methodology to answer the research questions through an overview of current debate on dynamic capabilities and knowledge-based dynamic capabilities. This methodology puts in evidence that there are still unresolved theoretical aspects due to the lack of empirical works. Indeed, this research aims to make a contribution to the current literature on dynamic capabilities, trying to cover the existing gaps and directing the further research efforts. This paper has a significant implication for the understanding of value creation process.
Flexitime and stress reduction: biographical influences
Authors: Karyabwite Alice , Govender Patsy
Published: February 2017

This aim of this study was to determine the biographical influences on flexitime and stress in an educational environment. The study was conducted using data which was collected using a measuring instrument and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Reliability was also determined. A sample of 97 employees was drawn using the stratified random sampling. Significant differences were found with the sub-dimensions of flexitime and some biographical factors. On the contrary, no significant differences surfaced with stress and the biographical profiles. Gender did not appear to be significant in this study. The study also lends support for organizations to strategies and institute flextime, to rethink their organizational policies, and to focus on productivity and organizational performance.
Network governance: Organisational and legal profiles
Authors: Trequattrini Raffaele , Russo Giuseppe , Lombardi Rosa
Published: February 2017

In the study of company networks the concept of governance includes the set of tools utilised in managing their complexity. This paper investigates the governance of company networks, starting with their organisational models and proceeding to an analysis of the contractual models selected for their coordination. More precisely, this research seeks to investigate network organisational modalities of an innovative character and thereby identify governance models which in turn stimulate business innovation. In this direction, the research question is the following: Which are models of governance that promote growth and business innovation?
Investor’s psychology commitment level and escalatory behavior in investment decision
Authors: Hamza Fadhila , Jarboui Anis
Published: February 2017

This study examines the reasons of investor’s escalatory behavior in firm’s investment decision. It shows the possible influence of three closely related features which are: firm’s financial indicators, investor’s risk profile, and investor’s psychology commitment level, on a firm’s investment decisions escalation. This study aims to provide evidence as to whether investor considers the financial and risk’s perception features (financial strength and risk profile) in his escalatory behavior while he notes a high psychology commitment level. The proposed model of this paper uses GLM univariate data analyses to examine this relationship. Investor’s risk profile and his psychology commitment level have been measured by means of a questionnaire comprising several items. As for the selected sample, it has been composed of some 360 Tunisian individual investors. Our results have revealed that investors pay more attention to keep their psychology comfort than their financial comfort. It exposed the importance of the investor’s commitment bias and its risk perception in explaining his investment decision escalation. Moreover results shows that there is strong and significant empirical relationship linking the investment decision escalation and the interaction effects between the three independent variables. This means that, in practice, investors consider the three factors simultaneously.
An empirical analysis of the effect of audit quality on financial reporting fraud
Authors: Hsiao Fujen Daniel , Lin Jerry W. , Yang Joon S.
Published: February 2017

Several highly publicized financial reporting fraud cases (e.g., Enron, Tyco International, and WorldCom) have put the role of external auditors and quality of their audit in ensuring corporate financial reporting quality under considerable scrutiny. Much research has been conducted on the determinants of earnings management. Since earnings management is inherently unobservable, most studies use various measures of accruals as proxies for earnings management. This study examines the relationship between audit quality and a more direct measure of earnings management – financial reporting fraud. Contrary to the concerns that nonaudit services are the primary reason for auditor independence impairment that results in lower audit and earnings quality, this study finds no significant relationship between reporting fraud and fees paid to auditors for various services.
The role environment and boards of directors’ characteristics on innovation: An empirical evidence of Greek listed firms
Authors: Balta Maria Elisavet , Woods Adrian , Dickson Keith
Published: February 2017

Research on the determinants of innovation practices and their effects on organisational performance have received an enormous attention among academics and business practitioners over the last few decades. Using evidence from a sample of 101 companies listed on the Athens Stock Exchange, the study examines the role of managerial and environmental characteristics on innovation strategies and how they contribute to Greek firms’ performance. The findings from linear regression analysis reveal that the functional background of executives and the complexity of the external environment are the key determinants of the innovation practices and thus, on organisational performance. The implications of the findings from the perspective theory and managerial practice are discussed, along with possible directions for future research.
La urgencia de la evidencia en psicoterapia
Authors: Paredes-Rivera Alvaro
Published: February 2017

Actualmente, y tras una larga historia de desarrollo y evolución, la psicoterapia es un campo en el que se presentan diferentes modelos de intervención, donde cada uno busca obtener un reconocimiento propio y su respectiva promoción. Ante esto, se plantea inicialmente la cuestión acerca de la utilidad de los modelos y que estos ofrezcan realmente resultados, haciéndose urgente contar con indicadores de eficacia respecto a los tratamientos empleados. En ese sentido, un paso importante ha sido la consolidación de los Tratamientos Psicológicos Eficaces (Chambless & Hollon, 1998), y más importante aún la meta de instaurar una Psicología Clínica Basada en la Evidencia (Spring, 2007). El presente artículo hace un análisis y revisión de esta propuesta, destacando la necesidad de adoptarla a favor de la coherencia con la idea de la psicología como ciencia; por otro lado también se describen las críticas o limitaciones planteadas, así como respuestas documentadas ante las mismas, considerando los retos futuros a los que conllevan para el avance de la psicología clínica y de la psicoterapia.
La introducción de la escala de inteligencia de Stanford-Binet en el Paraguay
Authors: García José E.
Published: February 2017

Aunque las primeras estrategias para evaluar la habilidad intelectual encuentran antecedentes milenarios en la antigua China, los intentos de medición en el periodo moderno comienzan con el psicólogo inglés Francis Galton en la década de 1880, mediante la aplicación de medidas fisiológicas para estimar el talento humano. A comienzos del siglo XX, los psicólogos franceses Alfred Binet y Théodore Simon construyeron las primeras escalas métricas para estimar la inteligencia de los niños. Estas fueron modificadas posteriormente en los Estados Unidos por Lewis Terman, quien publicó la revisión más conocida e influyente. En América Latina y otras regiones las adaptaciones locales se dieron en la misma época. En Paraguay, el test Stanford-Binet fue introducido en el decenio de 1920 por el maestro Ramón Indalecio Cardozo. Este no se limitó a una reproducción acrítica, sino que realizó algunas modificaciones para adaptarlo a las condiciones locales y mejorar la confiabilidad cultural de las pruebas. Este artículo estudia la introducción del test Stanford-Binet al contexto general de la educación paraguaya y los ajustes que llevó a cabo Cardozo. Para conseguirlo, se procede a una revisión de fuentes primarias y secundarias, colocando las ideas y los conceptos en el debido contexto histórico. También contribuye a ampliar otros trabajos anteriores centrados en la obra de este autor y en la psicología durante el periodo pre-universitario paraguayo.
Valores normativos de una escala de autoeficacia académica en estudiantes universitarios de Lima
Authors: Dominguez-Lara Sergio Alexis
Published: February 2017

El presente trabajo sintetiza la obtención de valores normativos (baremos) de la Escala de Autoeficacia Percibida Específica de Situaciones Académicas (EAPESA) en estudiantes universitarios de Lima. Participaron 883 estudiantes (75.5% mujeres) de edades comprendidas entre 16 y 56 años (M=22.16). El análisis factorial confirmatorio realizado indica que los datos se ajustan a la estructura unidimensional, y los coeficientes de confiabilidad utilizados (α, ω y H) presentan magnitudes elevadas. Los puntajes de la EAPESA no se ajustan a la normalidad, por lo que se elaboraron baremos utilizando percentiles. Se discuten los resultados y se sugieren guías para utilizar las normas. 
Sistemas psicológicos: un marco de análisis desde la sistematología, la theoretical psychology y la epistemología de la psicología
Authors: Fierro Catriel , Bruna Ornella , Brisuela Blume Laureano
Published: February 2017

Se presenta un contexto teórico y metodológico para una propuesta de instrucción de sistemas psicológicos a partir de parámetros de análisis meta-teórico y de modelos metacientíficos concretos, con el objeto de resituar los cursos de sistemas psicológicos y sus ejercicios intelectuales y procedimentales en el subsistema de la epistemología de la psicología. En primer lugar, se caracteriza el lugar de los sistemas en el desarrollo de la psicología. En segundo lugar, se describen discusiones a nivel internacional, regional y local acerca de la sistematología como contenido curricular en la formación de psicólogos. En tercer lugar, se describe el campo de los estudios de la theoretical psychology anglosajona, donde el estudio comparado de los sistemas psicológicos es una parte central. En tal contexto programático, la sistematología, lejos de ser el ejercicio enunciativo de los conceptos de los diversos sistemas psicológicos, constituye una disciplina metateórica del nivel empírico de la metaciencia. Se concluye tanto sobre la centralidad de los sistemas psicológicos en la formación académica de los psicólogos, como en la necesidad de pronunciamientos concretos en torno a las diversas variables que hacen a la concreción curricular de la sistematología. Tales conclusiones se desarrollarán en un trabajo de futura aparición que sintetiza una propuesta programática para la enseñanza de los sistemas psicológicos.
A novel program for ABSN students to generate interest in geriatrics and geriatric nursing research
Authors: Mewshaw Jennifer , Bailey Jr. Donald E. , Anderson Amber L. , Anderson Ruth A. , Burd Andrew L. , Colón-Emeric Cathleen , Corazzini Kirsten N.
Published: February 2017

The current shortage of nurse researchers in geriatrics adversely affects the capacity of nurses to conduct research to advance the evidence-based care of older adults. In an effort to generate interest in geriatrics and geriatric nursing research, the Duke University School of Nursing designed a summer internship for four students enrolled in the accelerated baccalaureate nursing (ABSN) program. This paper describes the experience of these ABSN students and the staff and faculty who worked with them. The program design, staff and faculty experiences, benefits and challenges, as well as recommendations for future programs are discussed. The purpose of this article is to highlight the benefits and challenges of offering research experiences to nursing students in an ABSN program to stimulate interest in geriatrics and geriatric nursing research.
Familielivets skyggesider: Religiøs genforhandling af transnationale steder og relationer
Authors: Rytter Mikkel
Published: February 2017

This article discusses how and why some Pakistani migrants after forty years in Denmark experience various kinds of occult attacks, such as kala jaddu (sorcery), supposedly perpetrated by relatives in Pakistan who envy their success and prosperity. The emerging suspicions of occult intervention add transcendental qualities to the existing transnational social field stretched out between Pakistan and Denmark /Europe. The article suggests that the combination of distinct social mobility, on-going intergenerational negotiations of what it means to be and do family, along with the massive securitization of Muslim immigrants after 11 September 2001 have created a fertile ground for suspicions and conspiracies of occult attacks within and between migrant families. Finally, the article urges researchers of Islam to pay more attention to how religious technologies and imaginaries are used (and abused) to organise and reorganise family life and kinship networks.
Grating-based Dipole Antenna Configuration for High Gain Directional Radiation characteristics
Authors: Sarin V. P. , Jayakrishnan M. P. , Aanandan C. K. , Mohanan P. , Vasudevan K.
Published: February 2017

The experimental and simulation studies of the radiation performance enhancement of a dipole antenna using metal strip grating are presented in this paper. The subwavelength imaging configuration of the metal strip grating is utilized for enhancing the radiation performance of a dipole antenna working in the S-band. The resultant design shows a gain of 9 dBi and front to back ratio of the design is found to be -23 dB at resonance. The coupling between electric and magnetic resonances provides the necessary impedance matching performance when the antenna is brought in the vicinity of the grating.