bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact on urban distribution operations of upstream supply chain constraints
Authors: Browne Michael , Gomez Mireia
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate and quantify the impact of delivery restrictions on costs and environmental performance for a distribution operation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from a company and several scenarios with varying delivery restrictions were investigated.

Findings

The results show significant reductions in cost and environmental impacts are achieved when restrictions are relaxed. However, the research also highlighted the importance of adopting a supply chain (SC) approach to the removal of restrictions and the need for public/private sector cooperation.

Research limitations/implications

The case study is based on one company only. However, the company performs many trips each day to many different customers.

Practical implications

The paper provides insight into the scope for change in the SC decision‐making processes in order to reduce environmental impacts (and identifies limitations).

Originality/value

The paper is a contribution to better understanding the importance of logistics decisions and not only transport when considering urban freight problems.
Simulation of goods delivery process
Authors: Boussier Jean‐Marie , Cucu Tatiana , Ion Luminita , Breuil Dominique
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper claims that the parking policy is one of the most obvious tools for reducing traffic congestion, pollutant emissions and conflicts between transportation network users. The purpose of this paper is to propose and implement a strategy, via a simulation tool, for the sharing of parking places between light cars and vans for goods delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

Temporal and spatial dynamic booking of on‐street parking places is described by using the multi‐agent paradigm. Main agents concerned by the sharing of parking places, their rules and interactions are implemented. Behavioral models and learning process of cognitive agents based on stated preferences collected beside the network users are designed for capturing multi‐agent interactions.

Findings

By coupling a 2D traffic simulation tool and the Copert III methodology, it is possible to simulate the traffic and environmental consequences of several scenarios for different infrastructures, occupancy rate of the places reserved for goods delivery and durations of the delivery process.

Research limitations/implications

Several points are under development: a 3D environment will capture with more realism the behavior of agents in a larger spatial scale and in real time. The behavioral models will be designed by stated preferences obtained from surveys containing questions coupled with pictures of possible scenarios.

Practical implications

Applied in a real context, the sharing of parking places strategy shows benefits for traffic and for the environment. A decision maker can use this strategy for simulating scenarios, in the context of an urban area in particular.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates how a simulation tool based on strategy of parking place sharing can satisfy constraints of transportation network users.
Technology foresight in Korea: a review of recent government exercises
Authors: Hwang JiHo , Kim YoungJun , Son Soekho , Han Jongmin
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Accurate and timely foresight of future trends and changes in science and technology (S&T) is a key to national competitiveness. The purpose of this paper is to describe recent technological foresight conducted by the Technology Foresight Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Evaluation and Planning. The authors also address current issues and problems encountered in the process of technology foresight (TF) in Korea.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used TF methodologies which included bibliometrics, expert panels, SWOT analysis, and conferences/seminars.

Findings

The authors derived 20 future issues and 40 future needs in S&T from the five areas of global mega trends; then 200 future technologies were suggested with a time horizon of 40 years, from 2010 to 2050, for solving those future issues and needs. Finally, the authors suggested outlooks for technological development in the years 2020 and 2050.

Research limitations/implications

It is time to evaluate Korean TF exercises which were started 15 years ago. The evaluation of TF will help guide TF and inform policy and decision makers.

Practical implications

The findings can help policy makers shape future governmental S&T policy in Korea. The final result of this work was applied to the second S&T Framework Plan in Korea, in which 90 technologies were identified as national key technologies for the next five years, from 2008 to 2012.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, there are no studies suggesting not only future technologies based on solving future issues and needs but also outlooks for technology development in the years 2020 and 2050.
Dynamic competition: a look at firms in theFortuneGlobal 500
Authors: Sledge Sally
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of factors that impact global competitiveness for firms in theFortuneGlobal 500.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses regression analysis to investigate the relationship between relevant competitiveness factors and firm performance forFortuneGlobal 500 firms, using the time period 1995‐2009.

Findings

The composition of firms on the list has changed over the timeframe. The results indicate that headquarters location and globalization are key indicators of firm performance. Other factors such as chief executive officer tenure have a lesser impact on firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

The timeframe of the study may have impacted the findings. The study included only large firms and thus the findings may not hold for smaller or medium‐sized firms. Additional follow‐up studies are planned.

Practical implications

Managers can identify factors associated with global competitiveness from the paper and pursue those factors in their business strategies.

Originality/value

This study replicates other studies that analyze the relationship between firm situational factors and firm performance. However, this study uses a unique sample, theFortuneGlobal 500, over a 15‐year period.
The exceptional performance strategies of Emirate Airlines
Authors: Nataraja Sundaram , Al‐Aali Abdulrahman
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the strategies and competitive advantages of Emirate Airlines that have led to exceptional performance while the overall airline industry globally has faced multibillion‐dollar losses in 2009.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors' professional experience, extensive literature review, and personal communications with selected personnel of Emirate Airlines on the subject provided the foundation for this research.

Findings

As the global business environment becomes increasingly competitive, the airline industry has also had to respond to the current business scenario, while facing devastating falling demands, shattered consumer confidence, and collapsing yields. However, in 2009, Emirate Airlines reported phenomenal growth and astounding profits while their rivals faced agonizing losses. This paper explores and examines the competitive advantage of Emirate Airlines. The major finding is that the formulation and implementation of appropriate strategies has led to the exceptional performance, profitability, and success of Emirate Airlines.

Practical implications

The competitive strategies – such as operational strategies, generic strategies, intensive strategies, and diversification strategies – can be helpful for firms to gain a competitive advantage over their rivals. Also, the ability to leverage, innovate, and pioneer new ideas, as well as a visionary management team, are essential for exceptional performance of an organization.

Originality/value

The paper provides a model for strategically managing the performance of an aspiring firm, even though the entire industry is facing distressing circumstances.
Sales force impact on B‐to‐B brand equity: conceptual framework and empirical test
Authors: Baumgarth Carsten , Binckebanck Lars
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to develop and empirically test a conceptual framework explaining the influence of the sales force on brand equity relative to the product and promotion elements of the marketing mix, in the context of business‐to‐business marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

Six research hypotheses, relating to the effects of four key drivers of B‐to‐B brand equity identified in a review of the relevant literature, were empirically tested with a sample of 201 respondents in B‐to‐B firms in Germany, using partial least squares analysis.

Findings

The results confirm the high relevance of the sales force to the building and maintenance of a strong B‐to‐B brand. The most important driver of brand equity in this environment is the salesperson's behaviour, followed in sequence by his or her personality, product quality and non‐personal marketing communications.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size permits only a general analysis and conclusions. The choice of PLS analysis and formative scales limits the rigorousness of scale and model evaluation. The decision to interview one manager per company may have introduced informant bias.

Practical implications

The study identifies controllable variables that are critical to the effective management of a B‐to‐B brand and offers an alternative approach to the measurement of brand equity in B‐to‐B marketing.

Originality/value

This is the first study to test the widely claimed influence of the sales force on B‐to‐B brand equity empirically, developing a simple but powerful framework to integrate sales management and brand management in this context.
The predictive ability of corporate narrative disclosures: Australian evidence
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Dong Yinan , Ren Yun
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between narrative disclosures and corporate performance based on Australian evidence. In particular it builds a model which discriminates between good and poor performing companies based on their corporate narratives.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of Australian manufacturing companies is classified into two groups based on earnings per share (EPS) movement between 2008 and 2009. A content analysis of their discretionary narrative disclosures is used to classify and predict group membership.

Findings

This study finds that the word‐based variables based on discretionary disclosures are significantly correlated with corporate performance. Word‐based variables can successfully classify companies between “good” performers and “poor” performers with an accuracy of 86 percent.

Research limitations/implications

The relatively small sample size, for Australian manufacturing companies, limits both the predictive ability of the model and its generalisability elsewhere.

Practical implications

The findings of the paper demonstrate that certain keywords, notably the use of “high/highest” and “dividends” are significantly and positively associated with superior performance.

Originality/value

The study builds a classification model for continuing Australian companies, whereas prior research focuses on UK and US companies and is based on a healthy/failed distinction.
The impact of independent directors and independent audit committees on earnings quality reported by Indonesian firms
Authors: Siagian Ferdinand T. , Tresnaningsih Elok
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether independent directors and audit committees that are chaired by an independent director as required by the Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX) affect the quality of reported earnings.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses both total discretionary accruals (DA) and earnings response coefficient (ERC) as the proxies for earnings quality. It runs multivariate regressions to examine the improvements in earnings quality after the firms meet the JSX requirements.

Findings

It is found that both DA and ERC improve significantly after firms acquire independent directors and independent audit committees. Lower DA occurs in the first and second years after the firms meet the JSX requirements. There is an improvement in ERC in the first years after firms meeting the requirements.

Research limitations/implications

The results suggest that independent directors and audit committees do improve earnings quality.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that compares the quality of earnings before and after firms acquire independent directors and independent audit committees. This methodology allows us to examine the impact of meeting JSX independence requirements on earnings quality. The findings contribute to the literature by showing the importance of having independent directors and an independent audit committee in order to improve earnings quality. These findings are specifically important for the capital market regulatory bodies, the shareholders, and the boards of directors, and for other users of financial reports in general.
The effects of changes in competition, technology and strategy on organizational performance in small and medium manufacturing companies
Authors: Zainun Tuanmat Tuan , Smith Malcolm
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine how the relationship among competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy affect organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a contingency approach, this study investigates the changes in competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy in small and medium Malaysian manufacturing companies. The data is collected using a mailed questionnaire survey of manufacturing companies in the Klang Valley.

Findings

Results of the study show that the majority of responding companies have recognised changes in their competitive business environment and advanced manufacturing technology, which have impacted on organisational strategic behaviour. Structural equation modelling shows positive relationships among competitive environment, manufacturing technology and organisational strategy, with a positive impact on performance.

Research limitations/implications

These outcomes provide useful insights into our knowledge of how organisational change has taken place in small and medium companies.

Practical implications

The study provides useful guidelines to small and medium sized companies facing changes to their business environment.

Originality/value

The study makes an incremental contribution to the existing organisational change literature for SMEs in developing countries.
Changes in management accounting practices in Malaysia
Authors: Zainun Tuanmat Tuan , Smith Malcolm
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Malaysia has moved towards global competitiveness. As an important contributor to the Malaysian economy, this change makes manufacturing companies in Malaysia need to ensure that their business operation and management cope with the current changes. To do this they need to reconsider their existing management accounting practices more than ever. Therefore, this study is carried out to determine how changes in management accounting practices in Malaysian manufacturing companies took place in response to a changing business environment and the effect of changes on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire survey is used to collect the data from various manufacturing companies in Malaysia. The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturer Directory is used as a sampling frame.

Findings

The results show that the level of changes in management accounting practices increased over the five year period from 2003 to 2007. The changes mostly occurred through the introduction of new practices, replacement of existing practices and modification of the way existing practices were used. Findings in this study also reveal that there are no significant differences in management accounting practices among local and foreign companies, or between small and medium, and large companies. This study also support previous research in terms of the positive relationship between changes in management accounting practices and performance.

Originality/value

Taken together this research outcome has contributed to the existing management accounting change literature especially in a developing economy setting.
Separating the wheat from the chaff – a taxonomy of open innovation
Authors: Duarte Vanessa , Sarkar Soumodip
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to shed light on the confusion of terminologies related to open innovation through the development of an open innovation taxonomy. By analyzing published case studies using numerical taxonomy methods, it proposes a taxonomic classification of open innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Earlier work on firm collaboration and concepts related to open innovation in order to understand the main motivations, and conditions behind open innovation‐like strategies is first to be reviewed in this paper. It then proceeds to collect and systematically analyze 20 published case studies, and using numerical taxonomy methods it produces a taxonomic classification of open innovation. As a first approach to taxonomy on open innovation strategies, the UPGMA methodology used seems very promising. The taxonomy of open innovation developed here can also be used as a decision‐making tool through the comparison of open innovation strategies inherent in the taxonomy.

Findings

Through the numerical taxonomy analysis the paper has been able to objectively create groups of similar cases, and strategies therein. This paper is able to draw some interesting conclusions by identifying two general strategies of collaboration ‐ a free revealing “democratic” strategy and a formal collaboration strategy. The first involves a proliferation of partners whose technical and creative skills are specific to the industry and the source of knowledge, and where the degree of interaction plays an important role. The second broad strategy of cooperation is linked to more formal collaboration, generally firm‐firm collaboration; in this group a large focus on markets features, especially technological intensity, was found.

Originality/value

This paper adds objectivity to the research of different open innovation strategies by using a method developed in the natural sciences. Based on a systematic review of literature, the paper was able to identify key characters describing features and come up with a taxonomy of open innovation, which goes a significant way towards making sense of the plethora of terminology related to open innovation. Key features of different open innovation strategies are also revealed.
Strategic application of outbound open innovation
Authors: Kutvonen Antero
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the strategic dimension of outbound open innovation (OOI) with a focus on identifying strategic objectives for exploiting knowledge externally. It reviews the literature, presents a list of strategic objectives, and introduces a novel categorization.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of works combining strategy, and OOI lead to conceptualizing an array of strategic benefits including novel concepts. The review focuses on the empirical observations reported by previous research.

Findings

This paper presents the most comprehensive description of strategic objectives that may be pursued by OOI, with several case examples. Objectives are classified to six categories: gaining access to new knowledge, multiplication of own technologies, learning from knowledge transfer, controlling technological trajectories, external exploitation as a core business model and exerting control over the market environment.

Research limitations/implications

The paper limits itself to discussing the non‐monetary objectives and incentives for engaging in outbound OI, or in other words, the potential that outbound OI has in creating strategic business opportunities.

Practical implications

For the manager, acknowledging the external opportunities for a firm's knowledge assets allows shifting from “just profit” externalization to a more strategic control over the company's future and its environment.

Originality/value

Whereas the common viewpoint in connecting between strategy and OOI is to minimize the negative impact, while retaining monetary benefits, this paper views OOI as an enabler of further strategic mobility and flexibility. The categorized list of strategic objectives also includes some novel additions to current understanding.
From the cradle – to beyond the grave?
Authors: Gilbert Peter
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the content and import of a conference held in partnership between Staffordshire University and The National Spirituality and Mental Health Forum on the importance of considering life in the context of human mortality, and the meaning and purpose of our lives. It was one of a series of conferences on the theme of health and multi‐belief systems; other conferences were on mental health and civic regeneration. A fourth conference is planned for 2012 on dementia and beliefs.

Design/methodology/approach

The conference and its format, including case studies is placed within the intense debate concerning the meaning of life in the context of death and what might be beyond “the grave”. With this conversation, and the issue of assisted dying becoming more prevalent, it was felt important to bring into the paper not just philosophical writings but examples from novels and “popular culture” which highlight the intensity of the dialogue.

Findings

Considering the perspectives of a variety of major belief systems assists in relating to and caring for the increasing diversity of older people and their carers when the ultimate challenge of dying is being faced.

Practical implications

As the discourse around assisted dying, belief systems and dignity come more to the fore, staff in health and social care will need time to discuss what are crucial issues for those they serve.

Originality/value

As religion and other belief systems come back into focus, partly through equalities legislation and increased demographic diversity, the Staffordshire University/National Spirituality and Mental Health Forum conference series has been an innovative way of meeting this renewed need.
Qualifications of non‐nursing residential care staff in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Power Martin , Jo Lavelle Mary
Published: October 2011

Purpose

In response to the challenge of the ageing of societies and concerns over recruitment and quality of service delivery, many nations have introduced new educational and training pathways, as well as national standards that set a minimum qualification level for residential care staff. In Ireland, national standards were introduced in July 2009 and, against this backdrop this study aimed to explore the level of qualification held or being pursued by non‐nursing care staff.

Design/methodology/approach

An email/postal survey was conducted.

Findings

This survey revealed that while vocational qualifications were most common, more than 50 per cent of care staff neither held nor were pursuing the minimum qualification set by the standards.

Research limitations/implications

While the introduction of standards may address this situation, the workforce appears currently ill‐prepared for increasing professionalisation. Moreover, given Ireland's poor economic circumstances, training or supports are likely to be limited, with the burden of training liable to fall on staff, undermining morale and increasing already tense industrial relations. Limitations of this study include variations in the roles of non‐nursing care staff, with many staff classified as “multi‐task” staff that perform a range of duties from personal care through to more general domestic duties and, in the context of a mixed economy of provision, the abundance of responses from the public sector relative to the private sector.

Originality/value

Nonetheless, this study provides a timely snapshot and a reference point for further research around the impact of standards on quality of care or workforce professionalisation and it will be of particular interest to policymakers, regulators, employers and care staff.
Audit of fidelity of clinicians to the Mental Capacity Act in the process of capacity assessment and arriving at best interests decisions
Authors: Sorinmade Oluwatoyin , Strathdee Geraldine , Wilson Catherine , Kessel Belinda , Odesanya Obafemi
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate health professionals' fidelity to the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) principles on determining mental capacity and arriving at best interests decisions in the care of individuals found to lack the relevant decision‐making capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

A retrospective review of the case records of 68 patients previously determined by clinicians as lacking mental capacity in at least one of three identified areas: treatment consenting capacity, capacity to decide on place of abode and capacity to manage financial affairs, was conducted. Notes were examined to determine how mental capacity was assessed and the process of arriving at best interests decisions in the care of the non‐capacitous individuals.

Findings

It was difficult to locate relevant entries as there were no designated folders for MCA related issues. There were (mostly) minimal entries made about the assessment process, only patchy documentation of the legal criteria used in capacity assessment, and which of the criteria the patient did not fulfil. Clinicians only partially followed the procedure prescribed by the MCA in determining best interests of non‐capacitous patients.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the need for health care professionals to better adhere to the principles of the MCA in assessing mental capacity and in determining the best interests of non‐capacitous individuals. Health care professionals and the public need to be better informed of the provisions of the MCA.
Drinking water saving potential of dual networks in Kuwait
Authors: Kotwicki Vincent , Al‐Otaibi Meshan
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study on how drinking water consumption could be potentially reduced by the introduction of dual water distribution networks. Since water of this quality is required only for drinking, cooking, bathing, and washing, delivering such water for uses that require non‐drinking water quality represents a tremendous waste of water and energy, and contributes to environmental pollution.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview of dual distribution networks in several countries is presented. Kuwait, in which 86 percent of the freshwater network has a parallel brackish water network, is the leader in this field, with brackish water used for a range of outdoor activities. The residential sector is the major consumer of freshwater in Kuwait and the control of demand in this sector will be a key factor in curbing the overall demand, which without any demand management measures is expected to quadruple by 2025. Computer modeling based on existing water use statistics and the proposed phasing‐in of a dual distribution network for indoor use in households has been undertaken to determine how the large quantities of reclaimed can be used to reduce drinking water consumption.

Findings

The paper presents a modeling exercise that demonstrates that by using reverse osmosis (RO) treated wastewater for toilet flushing and watering the gardens, water consumption demand can be stabilized at present levels over a 20‐year period.

Originality/value

The paper concludes that with foresight and long‐term planning it is feasible to implement a dual water supply network in a major city, on a scale which may lead to saving up to 25 percent of drinking quality water on top of other traditional water conservation measures.
Environmental assessment and sustainable management options of leachate and landfill gas treatment in Estonian municipal waste landfills
Authors: Voronova Viktoria , Moora Harri , Loigu Enn
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare various landfill gas (LFG) and leachate treatment technologies in a life‐cycle perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Since a landfill causes emissions for a very long‐time period, life‐cycle‐based environmental assessment was carried out to compare different technological options for sustainable leachate treatment and LFG collection and utilization. WAMPS, the life‐cycle assessment (LCA) model for waste management planning, was used for the environmental assessment of selected leachate and LFG treatment technologies.

Findings

Results of both direct measurements in the studied landfills and LCA support the fact that leachate treatment with reverse osmosis has the best environmental performance compared to aerobic‐activated sludge treatment. Recently, the collection efficiency of LFG in the studied landfills is relatively low. In order to improve the overall environmental performance of LFG management the gas collection rate should be improved. LFG utilisation for energy recovery is an essential part of the system. The results of the study show that the avoided impacts of energy recovery can be even greater than direct impacts of greenhouse gas emissions from landfills. Therefore, measures which combine LFG collection with energy generation should be preferred to treatment in flare.

Research limitations/implications

It should be noted that the results of this study do not express the total environmental impacts of the entire landfill system, but only the eutrophicating impacts and global warming related to the studied leachate and LFG management options. Therefore, it is recommended that further LCAs investigate also other relevant impact categories.

Practical implications

The results of LCA modelling show that it is important to ensure the highest collection and treatment efficiency of leachate and LFG, since poor capture compromises the overall environmental performance of a landfill.

Originality/value

The paper provides a site‐specific data on sustainable leachate and LFG management in selected Estonian conventional municipal solid waste landfills. As such, the paper contributes to the development of the regional reference input data for LCA in waste management.
The visionary cure of the addiction war? Ibogaine: social context, subcultural identity, and implications for drug policy
Authors: Rodger James
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Existing treatments for alcohol and substance dependence are of limited efficacy and acceptability to users. Since such dependence is associated with high co‐morbidity and mortality rates, alternative treatments should be urgently evaluated. Ibogaine, a hallucinogenic alkaloid, derived from Tabernanthe Iboga, a plant unique to the rainforests of West Africa, is already associated with a large underground treatment scene. This paper aims to explore this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the comparative ethnography of magicoreligious Iboga use in West Africa alongside contemporary accounts of ibogaine addiction treatment, and contextualizes these within the neurobiology and anthropology of addiction and treatment provision.

Findings

While the exotic otherness of ibogaine no doubt contributes to interest and hope, the impact of the medicine, not just on craving and withdrawal, but on the perceived acquisition of psycho‐spiritual insight, may validate such anticipation. Both West African and Western Ibogaine use are explored in the context of oppression, resistance and a re‐asserted morality. Successful ibogaine treatments appear to respect but transform existing subcultural meanings and identities, while promoting realism and psychosocial integration.

Practical implications

Existing treatment programmes might learn from the inherent critique of conventional treatment enacted in ibogaine treatment scenes.

Social implications

Lack of mainstream investment may partly reflect the cultural positioning of drug‐users (and of this drug‐class) yet the scale of underground ibogaine use demands urgent funding for research to optimise safety and further understanding/development.

Originality/value

An understanding of how addicts seeking ibogaine are culturally positioned, and position themselves, illuminates the specific attraction of ibogaine treatment for this group, and has important implications for practice, drug policy and treatment development.
“Bump and grind”: an exploratory study of Mephedrone users' perceptions of sexuality and sexual risk
Authors: Claire Van Hout Marie , Brennan Rebekah
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This exploratory research aims to contribute to a greater understanding of the strategic roles and incidental or deliberate sex drug associations relating to an emerging club drug called Mephedrone.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative phenomenological approach was utilized to analyze 22 in depth interviews in order to describe users' perceptions of this drug's impact on their sexual ideation and practises, while under the influence.

Findings

The finds that disinhibition involving compulsive masturbation, homosexual fantasies in heterosexuals, propositioning of strangers, promiscuity, prolonged marathon drug‐sex encounters involving casual/multiple partners and unsafe sexual practices [UAS/UVS] were all common, with gender differences present in terms of perceived connectivity with partners.

Originality/value

The research underscores the need for greater public health awareness and targeted drug‐sex interventions.
Social partners or full‐fledged stakeholders?
Authors: Delbard Olivier
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to question the status of trade unions on corporate social responsibility (CSR) today in the European Union (EU). How do they go from being social partners to a full‐fledged stakeholder status? The paper examines this question both from the point of view of stakeholder theory and from a field study in three different European countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is qualitative, i.e. based on a series of face‐to‐face interviews conducted in three different European countries (France, Germany, the UK) with different stakeholders, union representatives, non‐governmental organizations, experts, employers' associations.

Findings

The main findings are: inadequacy between stakeholder theory and the reality of European trade unionism and the CSR debate; trade unions are not “natural” stakeholders, rather “stake‐seekers”; the national business approach is relevant, in that national differences account for major differences among the three countries studied; and the European and global implications of trade unions into CSR help them gain full stakeholder status.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is a bit limited; it would be interesting to enlarge the scope of European countries. Also, it would also be relevant to interview shop‐floor members to analyze the gap between union officials and rank and file members.

Practical implications

This paper can help unions consider CSR in a better way, so as to integrate CSR issues into their agenda.

Social implications

The status of trade unions in the CSR debate has largely been overlooked, whereas their role in European countries is quite important.

Originality/value

There has been very little previous research on trade unions and CSR. The cross‐cultural dimension of this research and the EU dimension add value to the paper.
Growth and environmental pollution: empirical evidence from China
Authors: Halkos George E. , Tzeremes Nickolaos G.
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The rapid economic growth of China has attracted the attention of economists, researchers and politicians. China is one of the largest economies in the world, with its gross domestic product (GDP) rising on an average above 9 percent. This economic growth is considered responsible for environmental degradation, which appears to be the most significant problem that economic growth causes. The purpose of this paper is to explore China's carbon emissions during 1960‐2006, focusing on the role of growth, trade and the value added by various sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

Using time series data, this paper investigates China's carbon emissions during 1960‐2006, with particular focus on the direct role of growth and in connection to trade and the value added by various sectors such as agriculture, industry and services.

Findings

The authors' empirical results indicate the presence of an inverted U‐shaped curve between CO2 emissions and growth represented by the GDP per capita. Trade seems to be an important determinant in this relationship.

Practical implications

Such empirical findings provide evidence for policy implications regarding the role of growth, trade and the value added by the various sectors of the economy on environmental degradation.

Originality/value

This study is the first effort to explore the associated implications of growth, trade and the effect of the various sectors' value added on environmental damage in an environmental Kuznets curve framework.
Research on early warning system for antidumping petition: based on panel data logit model
Authors: Xiang Hongjin , Zongxian Feng , Xuyuan Liu
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Based on the American antidumping cases against China, the purpose of this paper is to construct an early warning model for Chinese exports.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to overcome the drawbacks of the existing early warning models for antidumping, first, the authors screen out six most relevant indices that play a key role in US textile corporations' decision of antidumping petition against China from 2002 to 2006, then design a early warning system for antidumping petition based on panel data logit model.

Findings

The regression result indicates that unemployment ratio and import‐penetration ratio significantly influence the antidumping filing decisions; when the other invariables keep the same, with the market share of China textile goods increasing by 1 per cent point, the odds ratio of antidumping petitions against China textiles increases by about 3.7 per cent.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware there is no definite research yet about early warning system of antidumping events, and this paper aims to specifically address this issue.
The home‐employment effect of FDI from developing countries: in the case of China
Authors: Liu Huiqun , Lu Jinyong
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The current extensive literature on the home‐country employment effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) focuses almost exclusively on the investments from developed countries. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the home‐country employment effect in China, a country that has emerged as an important emerging economy increasingly integrated into the global economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the long‐run relationships between outward FDI and employment in China. Johansen's cointegration technique and Toda and Yamamoto's Granger causality tests are applied to data for the period 1982‐2007.

Findings

The results indicate that outward FDI from China had a positive impact on the home‐country employment growth, especially in tertiary industry. These results also imply that the logic of the outward investments from low‐cost transitional and developing economies differs from that of high‐income countries.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors analyze the home‐country employment effect of FDI in China.
Investment decision making from a constructivist perspective
Authors: Massironi Carlo , Guicciardi Marco
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the reader to investigate some aspects of investment decision making from a constructivist perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The constructivist perspective is introduced in its dual nature of epistemology and of modelization. From constructivist epistemology, the paper mentions the corollaries of theoretical pluralism and cognitive pragmatism. From Kruglanski and Ajzen's Lay epistemology theory, the paper presents in more detail a constructivist modelization for the study and improvement of formal processes of investment decision making.

Findings

Beginning from the proposed framework, the paper indicates the lines for the development of a critical (or reflective) investment decision‐making attitude. This is an investment decision making which is able to reflect on its own constructs and cognitive processes in order to develop investment processes with a higher “constructivist awareness” and efficacy.

Originality/value

The proposed modelization can contribute to the work of those dedicated to the development of better formal processes of investment. The paper presents three examples of possible applications potentially useful for the improvement of the processes of asset valuation of value investors.
Neural network credit scoring model for micro enterprise financing in India
Authors: Mittal Sanjeev , Gupta Pankaj , Jain K.
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Quantitative methods known as scoring models have been traditionally developed for credit granting decisions using statistical procedures. The purpose of this paper is to develop a non‐parametric credit scoring model for micro enterprises that are not maintaining balance sheets, and without having a track record of performance and other credit‐worthy parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

Multilayer perceptron procedure is used to evaluate credit reliability in three classes of risk, i.e. bad risk credit, foreclosed risk credit and good risk credit.

Findings

The development of a neural network model for micro enterprises facilitates bankers and financial institutions in credit granting decisions in an automatic manner in the Indian context.

Originality/value

This study applies comprehensive information on parameters of financial package prepared by Indian financial institutions and banks to micro enterprises to design a credit risk model. This model, instead of categorizing borrowers in terms of their “ability to pay”, attempts a solution to the unsolved problem of credit availability to micro enterprises in an Indian context, having no past performance track record.
Proposal for a “Dual Scheme” model of statutory adjudication for the Australian building and construction industry
Authors: Brand Michael C. , Davenport Philip
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline a proposal for a Dual Scheme model of statutory adjudication for the Australian building and construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper deals with the security of payment problem in the Australian construction industry and the legislative response to that problem in New South Wales and elsewhere more generally. The paper highlights deficiencies in current adjudication schemes in Australia and proposes a revised methodology of adjudication by means of the proposed Dual Scheme model. The Dual Scheme is explained in detail and examples are given showing how the Dual Scheme would work in practice.

Findings

The Dual Scheme of adjudication allows for adjudication of “progress claims” (just as they are adjudicated now under the “Defined Scheme”), but also provides for separately adjudicated “money claims” in a similar way to that done under the “Non‐specific Scheme”. Both parties to a construction contract can take advantage of adjudication under a Non‐specific Scheme whilst simultaneously maintaining the relative time and cost benefits of the Defined Scheme in dealing with progress payment claims. Implementation of the proposed Dual Scheme would require new legislation.

Originality/value

The Dual Scheme is not a proposal to merely amalgamate two existing models of adjudication in Australia. Rather, it is a Dual Scheme incorporating the philosophy of two disparate systems of adjudication framed in a companionable form. It is hoped that the Dual Scheme may act as a common starting point for eventual agreement between the various interested groups as to what a national scheme of statutory adjudication in Australia will resemble in the future. The Dual Scheme proposal may be of interest in other jurisdictions where statutory adjudication for the construction industry has been introduced or is being contemplated.
Situating the subject: gender and entrepreneurship in international contexts
Authors: Ashe Fidelma , Treanor Lorna
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a perspective to further the understanding of gender entrepreneurship. This paper considers the situatedness of the gendered entrepreneur within diverse international contexts marked by different constitutions of gender identities and networks of power, both within the context of contributions within this special issue but also more broadly within the field of gender and entrepreneurship research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopt a feminist perspective and analyse the different framings of identity within gender and entrepreneurship literature and their contributions to our understandings of the concepts of both power and gendered identities.

Findings

The paper finds that power and identity are configured in different contexts in ways that open arenas for future analysis.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the importance of considering masculinities within gender and entrepreneurship research offering support for further analyses of entrepreneurial masculinities by examining two studies that expose entrepreneurial masculinities as shifting subjectivities influenced by men's social power, but also by interactions between men and women and broader cultural contexts and transitions. In so doing, it contributes to the research agenda in relation to gender and entrepreneurship in different contexts.
Gender, human capital, and opportunity identification in Mexico
Authors: de los Dolores González María , Husted Bryan W.
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how gender affects the number and innovativeness of business opportunities identified by future entrepreneurs in Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach

Comparing social feminist theory and human capital theory, this study examines the effect that human capital has on opportunity identification among men and women in Mexico. The authors specifically examine the role of specific and general human capital in the opportunity identification process. A survey instrument was applied to 174 MBA students at a university in Northeastern Mexico.

Findings

This study shows the significant effect of specific human capital: people with greater prior knowledge of customer needs or problems tended to identify more opportunities; however, the probability of identifying opportunities with innovation increased when individuals had been exposed to different industries through prior work and entrepreneurial experience. Gender differences were not significant for either the number of opportunities identified or the innovativeness of such opportunities.

Originality/value

This study provides evidence of the effect that human capital and gender have on opportunity identification in Mexico and provides an explanation within a context that has not been studied previously.