bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How To Get Your Manuscript Accepted For Publication: Insights From The Referees
Authors: Reyes Mario
Published: February 2016

A survey of nineteen referees for the Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR hereafter) revealed four major reasons for accepting finance manuscripts submitted to the JABR: excellent writing and presentation, sound research design, clearly stated contribution, and a viable economic story or motivation. In this paper, I discuss these tips for accepting a manuscript for publication and conclude with a few insights as the finance editor for the JABR. Although the context discussed in this paper focuses on finance manuscripts, the insights shared by the referees are quite applicable to authors in other business disciplines because a well written paper with important research questions that are analyzed using sound econometric analysis or afforded a well-reasoned analysis deserves consideration for publication in any academic journal.
Modeling Asymmetric Volatility In Oil Prices
Authors: Hassan Syed Aun
Published: February 2016

Recent volatility in crude oil prices has affected economies around the world, especially the US economy, which is the largest consumer of oil. This paper focuses on how shocks to volatility of crude oil prices may affect future oil prices. The paper uses daily crude oil price data for the past 10 years to test and model the oil price volatility by fitting different variations of GARCH including a univariate asymmetric GARCH model to the series. Tests show high persistence and asymmetric behavior in oil price volatility, and reveal that negative and positive news have a different impact on oil price volatility. These results will help interested observers better understanding of the energy markets and has important consequences for the overall economy.
A Fact-Oriented Approach In Macro-Case Analysis: A Section 385 Illustration
Authors: Chiang Wei-Chih , Englebrecht Ted D.
Published: February 2016

Prior research has not adequately addressed the coding issue in macro-case analysis research. This study provides a fact-oriented approach (in contrast to the traditional opinion-oriented approach) to deal with this issue. We argue that while a traditional opinion-oriented approach can reveal the influential factors considered by judges in the precedents, a fact-oriented approach provides a decision model with predictability which does not exist in an opinion-oriented approach. The differences between these two approaches are demonstrated by applying them to the Code Section 385 dilemma (i.e., the debt-equity classification). Results show that decision models developed by these two approaches are very different but with similar classification accuracy. Consequently, management and practitioners can use a fact-oriented approach as a supplemental method to the traditional opinion-oriented approach to predict the judicial outcome.
 
Introducing The Representational Measurement Project In Accounting
Authors: Musvoto Saratiel Weszerai
Published: February 2016

This study introduces a representational measurement (a theory that establishes measurement in the social sciences) perspective to the accounting concept of measurement. Accounting studies have long sought to establish foundations (theory) of measurement in accounting without success. This is because the accounting concept of measurement is based on the axioms of quantity which ultimately result in the classical theory of measurement and are not suitable for social science disciplines such as accounting, but rather for the natural sciences. The measurement of attributes of social science phenomena does not give rise to a natural concatenation operation, which is pivotal to invoking a theoretical concept of an absolute continuous quantity that forms the basis of the classical theory of measurement. As a result, this study suggests criteria whose development might eventually lead to the construction of representational measurements in accounting.
 
Predicting Auditor Changes Using Financial Distress Variables And The Multiple Criteria Linear Programming (MCLP) And Other Data Mining Approaches
Authors: Kwak Wikil , Eldridge Susan , Shi Yong , Kou Gang
Published: February 2016

 Our study evaluates a multiple criteria linear programming (MCLP) and other data mining approaches to predict auditor changes using a portfolio of financial statement measures to capture financial distress. The results of the MCLP approach and the other data mining approaches show that these methods perform reasonably well to predict auditor changes using financial distress variables. Overall accuracy rates are more than 60 percent, and true positive rates exceed 80 percent. Our study is designed to establish a starting point for auditor-change prediction using financial distress variables. Further research should incorporate additional explanatory variables and a longer study period to improve prediction rates. 
Relationship Marketing In Niger Delta's Oil Communities
Authors: Sonaike Kola
Published: February 2016

This qualitative phenomenological case study is based on the exploration and production activities of a major oil company in Nigeria, the companys experiences within its operating community, and the relationship marketing actions that the company may take in order to maintain general non-disruptive operational atmosphere in the area. Data was collected by interviewing 25 of the stakeholders within the community (Creswell, 2007) to determine their opinions on the general tension in the area as related to the communitys relationship with the major oil company. The interviewees were then asked for their opinions on possible steps that can be taken toward resolution of the problem of unrests in the area resulting from the operations of the major oil company. Specifically, in-depth semi-structured interview methodology was used (Moustakas, 1994). Each participant was asked the following three questions: What do you feel, in general, about your experience of the different unrests that have occurred between the particular major oil company and the host community in the recent past? What do you think can be done to resolve the problems that periodically lead to these unrests? Who is best suited to implement permanent solution to the problem(s)? The data collected was analyzed for themes, that is, clusters of meanings from the significant statement, sentences, or quotes, obtained from the interview transcriptions (Creswell, 2007). The researchers repeated lived experiences (Moustakas, 1994) of the problem of unrest in the area, was also relevant. Results showed that community leaders and some of the other stakeholders in the community desire a greater development of the relationship between the company and the community. They feel greater involvement of the community in the major oil companys projects undertaken for the community would help. Employment of more citizens of the community in technical areas such as engineering and geology are also desirable. In this connection, the company may consider some form of community tutoring or educational upgrade programs to bring high school students in the community up to speed in mathematics and other science subjects. Further, even though the research showed that the major oil company annually budgets substantial amount and carries out infrastructural projects for the community, the general feeling is that an increase in the level and scope would be advantageous for the companys long-term operations in the community.
How Much Did The Gulf Oil Spill Actually Cost British Petroleum Shareholders?
Authors: Boudreaux Denis O. , Rao SPUma , Das Praveen , Rumore Nancy
Published: February 2016

On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon Drilling Platform, a British Petroleum (BP) licensed rig, exploded. Two days later the huge rig sank to thebottom of the Gulf of Mexico triggering the United States worst offshore oilspill. By April 26, investors and themarket began realizing that the costs associated with this catastrophic eventto BP could be significant and BP shares fell by over two percent. The next day BP reported its annual earningswhich showed a huge rise in profits, due in part to much higher oil prices forthe previous year and BPs common stock price increased. However, on May 6, 2010, analysts warned that the Gulf ofMexico oil spill disaster would likely cost BP over $23 billion dollars (15bn)and its shares can be expected to lag behind those of its competitors by 5% forthe lasting future. At the same time,Tony Hayward insisted the company would "bounce back" from thesetback though he could not give a timescale for when the flow of oil would behalted. This study investigated BPsstock returns using two models to determine if their stocks experiencedabnormal returns for the period April 20, 2010 through April 5, 2011. Results show that the most significant impact of the oilspill to the stock price was over the first 34 days of the event period. This study estimates a significant negativeimpact of 38% to 41% in share value for BP during this event period.
The Complete Cycle To Achieve Industrial Energy Efficiency Concept, Resources, And Application
Authors: Wu Bin
Published: February 2016

This paper discusses some of the keyissues related to the institutionalization of best practice in industrialenergy efficiency. It presents the structure and functionality of an integratedand computer-aided framework that logically supports the complete cycle ofcontinuous energy efficiency improvement, the requirements of ISO 50001, andoutlines some useful resources and tools developed to support the framework.Results of real life application involving over 100 manufacturing companies arealso outlined.
Sustainability Indicators For Fishery Management In Songkhla Lake, Thailand
Authors: Doungsuwan Narit , Ratanachai Chatchai , Somgpongchaiyakul Penjai , Sangganjanavanich Prapaporn
Published: February 2016

This paper describes the development of a set of indicators for monitoring sustainable fishery management in Songkhla Lake, Thailand. Data and information for developing these indicators were collected through questionnaires administered to fishermen, interviews of other stakeholders, and focus group discussions among experts. The results revealed ten significant monitoring indicators, which are grouped into four categories - five ecological, one economic, two community, and two legal and institutional. They were selected so as to obtain the minimum number of indicators and to obtain indicators that are understandable, applicable, precise, sensitive, and linked to sustainability. They are expected to provide a useful tool for supporting the decision-making process of relevant organizations and achieving sustainable fishery management in Songkhla Lake.
The Necessity Of Strategic Leadership In Corporate Sustainability
Authors: Theodore John
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this article is to present the necessity of having strategic leadership in business corporations that practice corporate sustainability. There are three areas that corporate sustainability focuses upon: Ecological, sociological, and corporate/business. Corporate sustainability requires strategic leadership in order to interact with these three dynamic and divergent areas. Strategic leaders communicate their vision to their managers and employees and remain in continuous and uninterrupted contact with the former who are dexterously empowered by their leaders to assume supportive roles for the communication of their leaders strategic vision to internal and external stakeholders of the organization. Strategic thinking is utilized by strategic leaders and has to do with the analysis and evaluation of the existing internal and external environments of the organization and that of how changes in both environments can affect the organization. Strategic leaders utilize strategic intent that includes focusing the organizations intention to operate strategically. Flexibility is the ability of strategic leaders to analyze, evaluate, and respond to changes in both the internal and external environment of their organizations. Strategic leaders initiate changes because of the demands that emanate from the external and the internal environments of the organization. Strategic leadership changes are dramatic ones and their implementation requires the integration of vision, flexibility, and the support of the managers of the organization.
Towards A Theoretical Integration Of Sustainability: A Literature Review And Suggested Way Forward
Authors: Bateh Justin , Horner, Jr. Donald H. , Broadbent Ardell , Fish David
Published: February 2016

Organizations worldwide have adopted sustainability strategies to enhance their productivity and develop a competitive advantage. More often than not, organizations and their leaders develop a narrow view of sustainability and consider only the aspects of sustainability that are directly related to their sphere of performance (internal sustainability). Yet, sustainability issues impact all business and non-business organizations, as well as the long-term sustainability of international business relations and quality of life issues worldwide (external sustainability). An increase of appropriate sustainability efforts often requires expanding beyond conventional thinking. Economic necessity can drive both internal and external sustainability measures. Leadership effort is essential to enable shifts in organizational culture that enable sustainability efforts to succeed. This article discusses the sustainability movement. After defining internal and external sustainability, this paper discusses the philosophy of sustainability, internal and external sustainability, measurements, leadership, and best practices.
New Public Management And Service Science: Preparing Students For The 21st Century
Authors: Adams Michael O. , Smith Linda D.
Published: February 2016

This effort will seek to discover the foundations of public management and how it relates to information technology, specifically understanding E-government and other technologies in the public domain. Public Management is the development or application of methodical and systematic techniques, often employing comparison quantification, and measurement, that are designed to make the operations of public organizations more efficient, effective and increasingly responsive. This is a considerably crisper, concise, and narrow definition compared to other definitions of public administration, and its sharper focus is attributable to the larger fields encompassing of values in addition to those of efficiency, effectiveness and responsiveness.
An Adaptation Of The Balanced Scorecard For E-Government Service Delivery: A Content Analysis
Authors: Lawson-Body Assion , Mukankusi Laurence , Miller Glenn
Published: February 2016

E-government services refer to the emerging area of IS and IT services that are delivered electronically. The way that government agencies design and deliver services and configure and deploy underlying information and communications technologies, is central to the performance of e-government service delivery. This paper examines the effectiveness of website-supported Balanced Scorecards four dimensions (innovation and learning, internal process, veteran value proposition, and financial) in improving e-government service delivery performance. The study used content analysis to analyze the data obtained from a sample of 19 county veteran service officers (CVSOs) to test the hypotheses. CVSOs use websites to serve veterans on a Government-to-Citizen (G2C) basis. The results show that the different aspects of the relations between CVSOs and veterans fit with the four interrelated balanced scorecard factors. The results also show that three of the four website-supported Balanced Scorecard dimensions (learning and innovation, internal process, and veteran value proposition) have a positive impact on e-government service delivery performance. However, the impact of the fourth website-supported Balanced Scorecard perspective (financial) on e-government service delivery performance is different because of the digital divide among the various generations of veterans.
Topic Maps For Improving Services In Disaster Operations Management
Authors: Wang G. Alan , Zobel Christopher W.
Published: February 2016

Disaster operations management is an increasingly important application area for the developing techniques of service science. This paper examines the use of topic maps, a semantic technology, within this environment, and provides a preliminary discussion of the benefits that its implementation can provide in the capture and exchange of contextual information. The discussion is motivated by a look at the different phases of disaster operations management in a services context, and focuses on the need for effective and relevant information exchange as an important part of the services process. As the amount and complexity of information increases within such processes, semantic technologies are becoming increasingly important as a means representing and managing contextual information. This paper seeks to help further the understanding of the relevance of such tools as part of the study of service science.
DNA Of A Successful BPO
Authors: Behara Ravi S. , Bhattacharya Somnath
Published: February 2016

This paper identifies some of the critical elements of a successful BPO through a case study of an U.S. financial services firm that had BPO operations in India. The important dimensions of selection, training, motivation, respecting cultural differences, treating quality as paramount in all operations, and understanding how appropriate control has to be exercised in the area of knowledge-intensive services, were identified as being critical to success. Specific propositions are developed based on these critical elements, and provide a potentially new direction to service outsourcing research.
Foundations Of Service Science Management And Business
Authors: Katzan Harry
Published: February 2016

This paper continues with the conspectus of Service Science for academicians and practitioners. It follows the previous paper, entitled Foundations of Service Science: Concepts and Facilities, with the express purpose of defining the scope of the discipline. A thriving flexible service economy has emerged through globalization and digitization, and as a direct result, the modern enterprise has a dynamically changing boundary based on a portfolio of services obtained through make, buy, or rent decisions. Through the application of information and communications technology (ICT), many organizations have adjusted everyday operations enabling them to go through a transformational process to achieve revenue growth by being able to respond more quickly to changing market conditions and by being more effective and efficient in the application of services. The viewpoint taken here is that service management and modern business usually employ a complex computer infrastructure, but their domain is by no means restricted to computer-based services.
An Empirical Investigation Of The Concept Of Consumer Service Satisfaction: A Tricomponent Model
Authors: Smith F. Ruth , Brown Carroll A.
Published: February 2016

The concept of consumer satisfaction has been heavily researched with little agreement on its proper measurement. A tricomponent model is offered which is simple, robust, easily administered, and understandable to marketing managers.
Evaluating Investments For Services: A Value Chain Analysis Framework
Authors: Roztocki Narcyz , Weistroffer Heinz Roland
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a framework based on value chain analysis to evaluate investments for services. The rationale for this approach is that to properly evaluate the benefits of any services investments, the value and cost interactions resulting from different business processes or activities need to be considered. To achieve reliable cost estimations, the framework employs a costing system, which integrates activity-based costing with the economic value added performance measure. The proposed framework is illustrated using a hypothetical case of an information technology investment in a car repair shop.
Foundations Of Service Science Technology And Architecture
Authors: Katzan Harry
Published: February 2016

This paper concludes the conspectus of Service Science for academicians and practitioners. It follows the two previous papers, entitled Foundations of Service Science: Concepts and Facilities and Foundations of Service Science: Management and Business, with the express purpose of defining the scope of the discipline. An eclectic background in service technology and service architecture is required to fully explore the research potential of a science based on services. This paper reviews the technical concepts needed to apply the concepts that have previously been introduced.
Cultural Effects On Customer Satisfaction With Service Encounters
Authors: Hopkins Shirley A. , Nie Winter , Hopkins Willie E.
Published: February 2016

The conceptual model presented in this paper illustrates the relationship that we propose exist between several aspects of culture and customer satisfaction with a service encounter. Specifically, the model proposes that (1) the effectiveness of the service script used during a service encounter is directly related to customer satisfaction with the encounter, (2) cultural differences between the customer and the service employee have an impact on the effectiveness of the service script, and (3) the extent to which the customer identifies with his/her culture moderate the effects that cultural differences have on service script effectiveness. Implications for future research are provided, as are recommendations for managing the relationship.
Collaborative Research In Service Science: Quality And Innovation
Authors: Russell Roberta S.
Published: February 2016

The unprecedented shift in customer, corporate and societal demand for services and the management of corresponding resources has created a critical need for research, education, and outreach in service systems. Universities worldwide are addressing this need through the establishment of collaborative research centers, such as the Center for Services Science, Quality and Innovation (SSQI) at Virginia Tech. This paper discusses service science as a promising field of research and suggests opportunities for collaboration across disciplines, institutions and cultures.
Social Capital Impact On Service Supply Chains
Authors: Avery Sherry L. , Swafford Patricia M.
Published: February 2016

Purpose This study explores the impact of social capital on service firm supply chains.Design/methodology/approach The theoretical underpinnings of social capital is reviewed from various disciplines, including sociology, management, and operations management. This is used to develop a conceptual model of the use of social capital in a service supply chain setting.Findings - Social capital is proposed to improve the operational performance of service firms as a source of both physical and information resources. The impact of social capital is projected to vary by firm size and service type. Small firms have limited resources and thus a need for resources obtained through social capital. Service firms that have high customization and customer contact are subject to process variations which can be mitigated by social capital. A conceptual model is presented to test several propositions related to social capital.Originality/value The impact of social capital has not been widely studied in an operational setting. This is the first known study to specifically analyze the impact of social capital in service supply chains.
Principles Of Service Systems: An Ontological Approach
Authors: Katzan Harry
Published: February 2016

This paper delineates the principles of service systems, based on an ontological foundation of the subject matter developed independently of a particular endeavor, that are required to enable communication among researchers and assist in the ongoing theoretical development of the constituent topics. The paper begins with the presentation of service elements and progresses through the various topics until the requisite concepts, relations, and vocabulary are formulated. The subjects are presented in a developmental manner to promote clarity and readability by a broad service science audience and to support research in the discipline.
On An Ontological View Of Cloud Computing
Authors: Katzan, Jr. Harry
Published: February 2016

Cloud computing is an architecture for providing computing service via the Internet.  Use of the term “cloud” is a metaphor for the representation of the Internet used in most systems diagrams.  In this case, the Internet is the transport mechanism between a client and a server located somewhere in cyberspace, as compared to having computer applications residing on an “on premises” computer.  Adoption of cloud computing practically eliminates two ongoing problems in IT service provisioning: the upfront costs of acquiring computational resources and the time delay of building and deploying software applications.  This paper gives an ontological view of the subject in order to serve as a point of reference in the discipline and to facilitate ongoing technical development.
Strategic Facilities Planning: A Focus On Health Care
Authors: Hoadley Ellen D. , Jorgensen Brian , Masters Craig , Tuma Nalli , Wulff Scott
Published: February 2016

Turbulent market conditions have forced the health care sector to re-examine its business and operational practices.  Health care has become increasingly complex as decisions and planning are reframed in light of the current lagging economy, an increased demand for services, new global competition, and impending legislation reform.  The stress is felt most keenly within the nation’s hospitals and consortia of health care facilities.  Facility planning decisions are no exception.  Hospital administrators are abandoning the once commonplace rules governing aging infrastructure renovations.  Instead, administrators are basing decisions within their respective strategic context and are attempting to align buildings, services, personnel, and technology to an overall plan that looks at markets, operations, and finances as resources for competitive advantage.  This paper reviews the strategic facilities planning literature and applies those best practices which support this organizational alignment for health care.  An application in the mid-Atlantic demonstrates that hospital facilities, by design, need to support the current and future needs of health care delivery systems, while dated structures impede industry advances.  Health care infrastructure improvements must proactively address technological, regulatory, and financial changes facing the sector.
An Integrative Review Of 2/4 Transfer Programs
Authors: DuPont Timothy A.
Published: February 2016

This integrative review paper examines the most recent research data as it pertains to transfer programs between two-year and four-year colleges in the United States. This examination is guided by the research question: What are the suggested components of a quality transfer program? Suggested components of transfer programs are Transfer Centers which provide one location for transfer student services. These services should include: (a) advising services; (b) pre-transfer orientation programs; (c) access to four-year academic clubs, student organizations, peer mentoring programs and special networking sessions; (d) a method of tracking the transfer student’s performance; and (e) internet access. Transfer student transition is a collaborative service process among transfer students, community colleges, and 4-year universities, working together to assist with the transition.
An Investigation Of Organizational Information Security Risk Analysis
Authors: Jourdan Zack , Rainer, Jr. R. Kelly , Marshall Thomas E. , Ford F. Nelson
Published: February 2016

Despite a growing number and variety of information security threats, many organizations continue to neglect implementing information security policies and procedures.  The likelihood that an organization’s information systems can fall victim to these threats is known as information systems risk (Straub & Welke, 1998).  To combat these threats, an organization must undergo a rigorous process of self-analysis. To better understand the current state of this information security risk analysis (ISRA) process, this study deployed a questionnaire using both open-ended and closed ended questions administered to a group of information security professionals (N=32).  The qualitative and quantitative results of this study show that organizations are beginning to conduct regularly scheduled ISRA processes.  However, the results also show that organizations still have room for improvement to create idyllic ISRA processes.
Corporate Strategy And The Social Networking Phenomena
Authors: Johnson Robert L.
Published: February 2016

The Social Networking (SN) phenomena has developed relatively overnight and is continuing to develop at an exponential pace. It allows for innovative new methods of disseminating and collecting information in ways never before dreamed possible by corporate executives. The rise of Social Networking is becoming a disruptive technology for traditional marketing and advertising medium such as radio, television, web page, and print media, creating new business opportunities for the entrepreneur within organizations of any size, and allowing lucrative treasure troves of corporate intelligence about how the customers feel about ones or a competitors products or services. It means new executive leadership skills are now needed to take advantage of these new tools and developing corporate strategies. Those that do this well will be the winners in the market five years from now.
Service Visibility Across Lines Of Business
Authors: Harper Karen L.
Published: February 2016

This paper introduces the use of service science to maximize profitability by providing service transparency across lines of business in a financial operating environment. The concept of a live collector that runs in the cloud is presented. The collector gives information visibility, context mediation, and presentation facilities on a dynamic basis by employing the principles of cloud computing. The subject of cloud computing is introduced in the paper.
On Applying Six Sigma To Improving The Relationship Quality Of Fitness And Health Clubs
Authors: Cheng Kuei-Mei
Published: February 2016

Running a fitness and health club is a service-intensive business. Although it is not an easy job to provide high quality and satisfying services to customers, it is in fact the ultimate goal for most fitness and health clubs. For this reason, providing quality services and building a good relationship with customers has become an important issue for operating and managing a fitness and health club. This study adopts Six Sigma and the performance evaluation matrix as two major research tools. By implementing the steps (define, measure, analyze, improve, and control) of Six Sigma and through the nine performance boxes generated by the importance-satisfaction matrix (with importance as the horizontal axis and satisfaction as the vertical axis) of Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA), this study aims to specifically identify the services most requested by customers in an effort to provide highly satisfying services and improve relationship quality.
Optimal Supply & Demand Balance In Service Environments
Authors: Koca Eylem , Sedaghat Mohammad , Yoon K. Paul
Published: February 2016

We study service environments that can be modeled as stochastic finite-capacity double-ended queues, where supply and demand arrive in independent Poisson processes to be instantly paired-off. In the case where throughput (output rate) is not a significant metric of system performance (as typically studied in the literature), we derive analytical results to gain managerial insights. We find that the operational decision on optimal supply/demand balance and the strategic decision on how to achieve that optimal balance can be decoupled and stratified. With the purpose of providing a managerial guide, we identify conditions for when to manipulate demand rather than supply, and vice versa. For the first time in the literature, we study throughput considerations in this context, and we analytically characterize the optimal strategy. Specifically, we show that it is optimal to manipulate either demand, or supply (and not both), and that the optimal system balance and the strategy on how to achieve it are strongly tied. Our findings can shed light on the managerial decision making process in these environments, and they can be used to revisit any governing strategies dictating management of demand (or supply) as a first course of action.
Revisiting The Software Industry In Costa Rica: Achievements And Challenges
Authors: Bonilla Lizette Brenes Bonilla , Baraya Aristides R. , Budden Michael C. , Bermudez Ligia
Published: February 2016

Costa Rica's economy like that of many developing and developed nations is largely service-based. The information and communication technologies (ICT) sector plays an increasingly key role in strengthening the service aspect of the economy.  A large part of the ICT sector is the software sector. This study is an update of a review of that sector’s contributions conducted in 2008.  In that effort, software producers’ characteristics and needs were investigated. The current article investigates the evolution of the sector and its competitive position in the business sector. The study is national in scope and represents a random sample of firms in the industry. The findings highlight the achievements and remaining challenges for the industry and provide public policy recommendations.
Novos Horizontes Epistemológicos para a Pesquisa Empí­rica em Direito: "Descentrar" o Sujeito, "Entrevistar" o Sistema e Dessubstancializar as Categorias Jurídicas
Authors: Garcia Margarida
Published: February 2016

Tendo por pano de fundo o tema da relação entre o Direito e as Ciências Sociais, este artigo identifica três propostas epistemológicas aptas a abrir novos horizontes para a pesquisa empí­rica em Direito: "descentrar" o sujeito, "entrevistar" os sistemas por meio de entrevistas qualitativas voltadas à  observação da comunicação, e dessubstancializar as categorias jurídicas. Estas propostas epistemológicas são apresentadas como condições necessárias à possibilidade de um olhar externo sobre o Direito. Elas são consideradas como favorá¡veis ao desenvolvimento da pesquisa multidisciplinar em Direito, pois, em certa medida, tanto o Direito como as Ciências Sociais podem se beneficiar dessas três estratégias. As Ciências Sociais devem"levar o direito a sério", suas pesquisas sobre o Direito devem ser realizadas "com o Direito". Por seu turno, o Direito pode aprimorar suas observações e seus modelos normativos internos por meio daintegração em suas premissas de decisão do conhecimento produzido pelas Ciências Sociais. A autora suscita a hipótese de que essa integração - uma realidade bastante concreta no universo judiciário, mas ainda pouco problematizada - tenderá a se desenvolver futuramente cada vez mais no mundo jurí­dico. As questões contemporâneas da sociedade (direitos religiosos, direitos de minorias, direitos das mulheres, direitos de povos autóctones, direito ao suicídio assistido, direito ao casamento entre casais do mesmo sexo, direitos reprodutivos, direitos dos imigrantes ilegais, etc.) são reguladas cada vez mais por figuras jurídicas caracterizadas por uma textura normativa aberta (valores fundamentais, direitos humanos, etc.) e as Ciências Sociais serão assim mais e mais consideradas como recursos cognitivos importantes para a determinação e a especificação jurídicas - serão essenciais portanto para aqueles que pensam e que dizem o Direito. Com efeito, visto que essas questões exigem dos atores judiciários criatividade e imaginação jurídicas, bem como abertura cognitiva e normativa diante das diferentes possibilidades de regulação e de concepção de diferentes "possíveis", as Ciências Sociais serão, neste contexto, elementos importantes de "determinação" dos possí­veis ainda não atualizados.
Criminologia e Prisão: caminhos e desafios da pesquisa empírica no campo prisional
Authors: Braga Ana Gabriela Mendes
Published: February 2016

O presente artigo é um dos frutos da pesquisa de doutoramento “Reintegração social: discursos e práticas na prisão ‒ um estudo comparado”, na qual foram analisados alguns projetos desenvolvidos por entidades da sociedade civil em estabelecimentos prisionais de São Paulo e da Catalunha (Espanha). Para tanto, utilizou-se metodologia qualitativa de pesquisa, com o emprego de três métodos: entrevistas semidirigidas com os envolvidos direta e indiretamente com os projetos (voluntários, presos, diretores de entidades, funcionários da prisão); pesquisa documental (projetos, memoriais, manuais); e, relatos etnográficos produzidos a partir da observação in loco do trabalho desenvolvido pelas entidades selecionadas nos estabelecimentos prisionais. Neste paper, ganha destaque a questão do método em criminologia e as reflexões acerca da pesquisa empírica na prisão. Em uma pesquisa situada em um espaço tão hermético como a prisão, explicitar os caminhos de inserção do campo é um exercício que desvela os mecanismos de poder em funcionamento, e acaba por levar o pesquisador de volta ao objeto da própria tese. Afinal, muitos dos empecilhos e barreiras criadas para a entrada do pesquisador na prisão são os mesmos com que se deparam as entidades e pessoas da sociedade civil. Esse artigo é uma reflexão acerca dos caminhos e dos desafios vivenciados por aqueles que adentram o espaço prisional enfrentando o isolamento impostos por seus muros.
Criatividade na Atividade Regulatória: quando o braço mecânico ganha vida própria
Authors: Paschoal Bruno Vinicius Luchi
Published: February 2016

O texto descreve o processo de criação do programa Nota Fiscal Paulista e as estratégias regulatórias que objetivam o pagamento do imposto ICMS pelos varejistas paulistas. Ele mostra que os administradores públicos podem ter grande autonomia regulatória e não precisam se limitar às estratégias de comandos apoiados por sanções punitivas. Essa autonomia, no entanto, pode ser limitada por diferentes fatores, o que leva a uma criação incremental dessas estratégias regulatórias.
Avaliando o desenvolvimento da pesquisa empírica em direito no Brasil: o caso do Projeto Pensando o Direito
Authors: Lins e Horta Ricardo de , Almeida Vera Ribeiro de , Chilvarquer Marcelo
Published: February 2016

Embora pesquisas empíricas em Direito no Brasil sejam realizadas desde a década de 1970, e os últimos anos tenham trazido um crescimento acentuado do uso dessas metodologias, ainda se discutem os motivos da sua relativa incipiência. Entre eles estariam o baixo rigor científico, o isolamento da área e a baixa institucionalização da pesquisa em Direito. Partindo da premissa que o Projeto Pensando o Direito proporcionou meios para o apoio institucional, financiamento e divulgação de tais pesquisas, buscamos testar a hipótese de que os 56 relatórios publicados pelo Projeto, que cobrem o período de 2007 a 2012, refletem um crescimento relativo do uso e da diversidade de metodologias empíricas típicas das ciências sociais. Foi encontrado um significativo aumento na diversidade de abordagens empregadas por pesquisa, bem como no uso de estratégias de aplicação de questionários e realização de entrevistas. Os achados sugerem que a pesquisa em Direito no Brasil passa por um processo de difusão de abordagens multimetodológicas e de aproximação com as ciências sociais.
Participação social, estado democrático e constituição: uma análise do perfil dos conselhos municipais de Riberão Preto - SP
Authors: Antonietto André Gomes , Severi Fabiana Cristina
Published: February 2016

Nosso trabalho tem como principal objetivo deter- minar o perfil institucional dos Conselhos Munici- pais de Políticas Públicas de Ribeirão Preto/SP, por meio da análise dos atos normativos que os criam e regulamentam e com base na aplicação de variá- veis identificadas na literatura recente sobre o tema. O estudo identificou que, na história do município, foram criados 47 Conselhos, sendo escolhidos para compor a amostra 23 deles, a partir de critérios que identificam quais deles estavam em atividade em 2014. Na literatura científica foram identificadas vari- áveis que representam as características que mais in- fluenciam a efetividade dos Conselhos, divididas em três categorias: características gerais, processo de- cisório e composição/representação. Os resultados indicaram grande falta de transparência quanto ao funcionamento dos Conselhos e que eles, em geral, integraram em seus formatos algumas características consideradas a princípio como essenciais para sua efetividade, mas que outras características recentes, identificadas em função das limitações das anterio- res, são implementadas em poucos deles. Esperamos que os resultados deste trabalho contribuam para o aprofundamento democrático dos Conselhos de Po- líticas Públicas de Ribeirão Preto.
Prothrombin Time (PT) for Human Plasma on QCM-D Platform: A Better Alternative to 'Gold Standard'
Authors: Munawar Hussain
Published: February 2016

Measurements of hemostasis parameters such as Prothrombin time (PT) are substantial in various clinical cases of extensive surgery, dialysis or innate hemostasis disorders. This is the first study of recognition of PT assay for human plasma on quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) platform. QCM-D technique has been compared in parallel with ‘gold standard’ mechanical coagulometer in the terms of anticoagulant monitoring in 20 plasma samples. In this report the shortest sample volume consumption of 2.66 µl of human plasma for PT has been demonstrated on QCM-D platform. This also demonstrates the shortest reagent (thromborel) volume consumption employed ever for PT. 'Gold standard' employs 38 folds higher plasma as well as reagent volume consumption. Additionally, QCM-D technique proved superior to 'gold standard’ for monitoring of the whole process of plasma coagulation kinetics. It yielded total coagulation information from frequency and dissipation shifts, which are impossible on 'gold standard’. Furthermore, QCM-D platform offers the calculation of fibrinogen concentration along with PT and total coagulation monitoring in single set of measurements. Fibrinogen concentration can be calculated from calibration curves having R2 values of 0.99. This is promising support for Point of Care (POC) settings in the perspective that it covers the extreme range of fibrinogen from 1.0 to 6 g/L. PT based QCM-D platform for plasma application proved better alternative to that of 'gold standard' and it paves the path towards routine laboratory method.
'Argatroban' Monitoring in Human Plasma: aPTT and PiCT Studies on QCM-D vs 'Gold Standard'
Authors: Munawar Hussain
Published: February 2016

Low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) are used as effective and safe alternative anticoagulants to unfractionated heparin (UFH) in surgery. Argatroban is an important example of such kind of anticoagulant and is the most-used   anticoagulant in surgery after UFH. This is first report of comparative study of argatroban on quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) platform via activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombinase induced clotting test (PiCT). The QCM-D platform has been comparatively studied with ‘gold standard’ (i.e. mechanical coagulometer). Human plasma samples of healthy donors (n=20) spiked with different doses of argatroban were subjected to these measurements. QCM-D yields information of aPTT or PiCT and total coagulation points from frequency and dissipation signals. Overall PiCT data yielded lower variability as compare to that of aPTT. QCM-D platform provides the additional advantage of cost-effectiveness in the perspectives of the lowest sample (and reagent) volume consumption of 1.66 µL.
Shortened 'Thrombin Time' Monitoring on QCM-D: A Better Substitute of 'Gold Standard'
Authors: Munawar Hussain
Published: February 2016

Thrombin is the central enzyme in the coagulation cascade. Recently, modern technologies for thrombin generation measurement have shown a multidisciplinary interest in methods and assays. This is first report to recognize and optimize for human plasma application of 'thrombin time' (TT) assay for quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) technique. QCM-D technique has been studied comparatively with mechanical coagulometer (which is regarded as 'gold standard' for coagulation assays). The optimized protocol for TT has been applied for plasma samples (n=54) on both platforms. Thrombin times (TTs) on QCM-D platform versus those of 'gold standard' yielded a promising correlation line with R2 value of 0.86. For TT assay, QCM-D platform proved superior as compared to 'gold standard' platform due to following four edges. Firstly, QCM-D platform provides whole kinetic information, including monitoring of total coagulation on its measurement curve. 'Gold standard' cannot yield this information because it picks one point during coagulation. Secondly, TTs on QCM-D platform are 30% shorter as compared to those of 'gold standard'. Thirdly, TTs on QCM-D technique produced 16% lower %RSD demonstrating lower variability. Lastly, a historical lowest sample volume consumption of 2.50 µl has been applied on QCM-D platform. ‘Gold standard’ employs 40 times greater sample volume consumption for laboratory experiments of TT. Additionally, 40 times lower reagent volume consumption has been employed on QCM-D platform in comparison to its counterpart’s. These advantageous features are substantial support for point of care (POC) settings for TT assay via QCM-D technique.
A Review of Ionic Liquids for Advance in Drug Delivery: Theory and Pharmaceutical Implementation
Authors: Mahmoud Omar
Published: February 2016

Over the years chemical salts with the name of ionic liquids have been developed although there use in the pharmaceutical field is still under intense investigation. Due to their unique properties of forming neutral ion pairs and combining two drugs to one salt they have been investigated for the use in drug delivery. Where a solid drug salt could be transformed into a neutral liquid, with the expectation of increased core permeation without the need of complex permeation mechanism, especially through the skin. The review aims to discuss the theory of these liquids and give pharmaceutical implementation.Additionally, it outlines the possible drug permeation enhancement through skin.