bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why does the microcredit borrowing rate differ across countries? A cross‐country study
Authors: Pereira Sofia , Mourao Paulo
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the socio‐economic variables that influence the number of micro‐credit projects worldwide. The paper also intends to study the socio‐economic variables that lead to a higher default rate. In order to do this study, the authors use a database from MIX and include some more variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper intends to explore why the number of debtors/lenders is higher or lower depending on each country, and what variables influence this behavior. This will allow regions to be distinguished where there is more microcredit and on what basis and why, in some cases, it is found to have a higher incidence of default.

Findings

The results showed that green cases (characterized by a lower probability of default) are increased when more collateral value is required and the case is not in Africa. Higher levels of population under the poverty line, higher levels of the Gini Index, and being an African country lead to higher levels of yellow cases. It was observed that the percentage of red cases (characterized by a higher probability of default) tends to rise if there is a smaller value of firms using banks to finance investments, if there is a reduced expression of small firms, and if there are smaller values of collateral needed for a loan.

Originality/value

This is the first scientific paper on this field (heterogeneity of microcredit borrowing rates).
Economic security, well functioning courts and a good government
Authors: Mamoon Dawood
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define economic security as a country's ability to redistribute incomes through a strong governance structure by practicing rule of law, eliminating corruption and a government that acts as a facilitator by formulating effective fiscal and monetary policy and regulation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses two stage instrumental analysis and carries out second order asymptotic tests to establish the validity of the instruments.

Findings

The results suggest that courts that implement national laws effectively and punish corruption and a government that has balance budgets and investment friendly monetary policy ensures economic security by means of welfare friendly outcomes that favor the incomes of the poor and middle class. There is also evidence that redistribution takes place from rich to the poor. As a result, income and wage inequalities fall down.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the literature on institutions by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between institutions and inequality.
The missing movement: a Polanyian analysis of pre‐crisis America
Authors: Herman Dan
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to seek to apply Polanyi's theory of the double movement as a response to the effects of economic liberalization and globalization to the pre‐2007 American economy. In so doing, it seeks to ascertain the reasons why this assumed double movement did not materialize until after the post‐2007 global economic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is structured as a theoretical and historical analysis, building upon Polanyi's nineteenth century observations and applying them to contemporary policy economic and social experience in the USA in the late twentieth century. The argument proposes a correlation between the missing and/or delayed movement and the role of access to debt and participation in equity markets.

Findings

This paper argues that Polanyi's concept of a societal countermovement has been absent from the post‐1970 period of economic liberalism and globalization until just recently due to an explicit attempt by the forces of capital to circumvent its role in lessening the harmful effects of American capitalism. In particular, the double movement that should have sought to lessen income inequality, unemployment and wage stagnation was instead replaced by access to cheap credit and the democratization of market investments that spurred consumer purchases and a false belief that what was good for the markets was good for working class Americans.

Research limitations/implications

This paper highlights the need for ongoing research into the sociotropic nature of trade and of economic policy, and its evolution throughout the contemporary period of economic uncertainty and economic transition.

Practical implications

The paper proposes several policy implications arising from the contemporary application of Polanyi's double movement, notably related to international trade and public and political support for ongoing trade liberalization.

Social implications

This paper highlights important connections in the relationship between economic policy and the day‐to‐day lives of those who are governed by it. Building on “everyday political economy”, it provides a foundation for arguments that a new balance must be found between economic globalization and transnational capital interests and domestic stability.

Originality/value

This paper promotes a novel approach to understanding the political economy of pre‐2007 America, in particular the reflexive nature of economic policy and societal perceptions.
Should managers estimate cost of equity using a two‐factor international CAPM?
Authors: Dolde Walter , Giaccotto Carmelo , Mishra Dev R. , O'Brien Thomas
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess how much difference it makes for US firms to use the two‐factor ICAPM to estimate their cost of equity instead of a single‐factor CAPM.

Design/methodology/approach

For a large sample of US companies, the authors compare the empirical cost of equity estimates of a two‐factor international CAPM with those of the single‐factor domestic CAPM and the single‐factor global CAPM.

Findings

The authors find that the cost of equity estimates of the two‐factor ICAPM are reasonably close to those of either single‐factor model for US firms with low‐to‐moderate foreign exchange exposure; and second, perhaps surprisingly, for US firms with extreme foreign exchange exposure, that the cost of equity estimates of the two‐factor ICAPM tend to be very close to those of the domestic CAPM, and even closer than to those of the single‐factor global CAPM.

Research limitations/implications

The paper's findings might prove useful to academic researchers wanting to resolve the seemingly contradictory empirical results on the pricing of FX risk.

Practical implications

The findings will hopefully help managers decide whether they should go to the trouble of estimating a US firm's cost of equity with the two‐factor international CAPM instead of a traditional single‐factor CAPM.

Originality/value

The paper extends the existing literature by focusing on the two‐factor ICAPM, and finds some new and surprising empirical results.
Corporate foreign exchange speculation and integrated risk management
Authors: Aabo Tom , Andryeyeva Hansen Marianna , Pantzalis Christos
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how non‐finance departmental involvement in the management of exchange rate risks impacts the extent of foreign exchange speculation in non‐financial firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Non‐financial firms in a small open economy (Denmark) are surveyed to investigate the extent of foreign exchange speculation and how it is related to the degree of nonfinance departmental involvement in the management of exchange rate risks. The authors employ binary and ordered probit regression analysis.

Findings

A positive link is found between the extent to which departments other than the finance department are involved in the management of exchange rate risks; and second, the extent to which the firm is likely to speculate – whether in the form of selective hedging or active speculation – on the foreign exchange market.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that the trend towards a more integrated risk management approach in which the finance department is not the only department responsible for risk management may have the (unforeseen) consequence that foreign exchange speculation increases.

Originality/value

The paper's findings are important because the link between the extent of foreign exchange speculation and a more integrated risk management approach has not been addressed previously.
Bank branch efficiency evaluation by means of least absolute deviations and DEA
Authors: Tsolas Ioannis E. , Giokas Dimitris I.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the efficiency of individual branches of a large Greek bank through the application of both goal programming (GP) and data envelopment analysis (DEA).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a particular least absolute deviations (LAD) technique (i.e. a special case of GP/constrained regression) and DEA as two performance measurement methods. The performance evaluation by means of GP is assessed utilizing two alternative conceptual (parametric functional form‐loglinear) models: one focusing on transaction and one on production efficiency. The DEA assessment using the transaction efficiency model is performed under the specifications of constant or variable returns to scale.

Findings

The two methods do provide confirmation of each other's findings. The results support the main claim that there is a strong relationship between the rankings obtained by GP and DEA. Moreover, the GP results indicate that there is a relationship between bank branch transaction and production efficiency.

Practical implications

The results may be of interest to stakeholder groups such as bank shareholders, managers, and regulatory authorities.

Originality/value

The paper is believed to be the first to examine the application of GP and DEA to measure the efficient use of resources of bank branches in Greece in terms of location (urban‐rural).
Internet financial reporting: Turkish companies adapt to change
Authors: Bozcuk Aslihan E.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the sophistication of internet financial reporting (IFR) for Turkish listed firms and explore firm‐specific drivers.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveys the web sites of all firms listed on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (ISE) during December 2009 using a well‐established scoring system to measure IFR.

Findings

It is found that size, auditor and corporate governance effects, as measured by a multivariate regression analysis framework, affect the sophistication of IFR. However, in extending the analysis by running separate regressions for small and large firms, these effects prevail only for large firms. Evidence also supports the industry effect for both small and large firms. Overall, large firms, audited by large international auditors, and included in the Corporate Governance Index of the ISE, are more likely to use sophisticated disclosure formats such as audio and video files, internal search engines and hyperlinks inside their annual reports.

Originality/value

Using a unique data set, this paper provides a snapshot of how well Turkish companies adapt to change in IFR. Its novelty lies in its addressing the issue of IFR sophistication and the impact of firm‐specific factors, such as profitability, growth prospects, firm size, ownership, corporate governance environment and industry effects, for the first time as they apply to Turkish firms.
Precipitation of ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composites in the presence of natural rubber latex and selected non‐ionic surfactants
Authors: Laurentowska A. , Ciesielczyk F. , Siwińska‐Stefańska K. , Jesionowski T.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to obtain ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composites of low bulk density, high homogeneity and consisting of the smallest possible particles. The optimum parameters of precipitation of ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composites impregnated with natural latex rubber were established. The formation and impregnation the ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composites were made to occur simultaneously.

Design/methodology/approach

The influence of non‐ionic surfactants added during the precipitation process on the physico‐chemical properties of the oxide systems obtained was investigated. The products were characterised by determination of bulk density, absorption capacities of water and paraffin oil, particle size distribution (applying NIBS and laser diffraction methods), as well as SEM observations of surface morphology and microstructure. Moreover, the colorimetric characteristics of the oxide composites obtained and sedimentation profiles in water were analysed. Energo‐dispersive microanalysis of the products enabled determination of the content of ZnO and SiO2. The surface area (BET) and the size and volume of pores were also estimated.

Findings

Modification of the oxide composites with nonylphenylpolyoxyethyleneglycol ethers was found to improve the basic physico‐chemical parameters of the ZnO‐SiO2 hybrid systems and to change the character of its surface to become more hydrophobic. The conditions in which samples with the best properties were obtained were concluded to be optimum.

Research limitations/implications

Only the selected non‐ionic surfactants were applied as modifying agents of ZnO‐SiO2.

Practical implications

There is a possible application of ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composites as activators of rubber compounds and barrier materials in textiles.

Originality/value

The proposed method of ZnO‐SiO2 oxide composite synthesis in the process of precipitation with simultaneous modification with non‐ionic surfactants provides products with desirable dispersive‐morphological parameters and a hydrophobic surface character.
Vinyl aniline modified cyclohexanone formaldehyde resins
Authors: Ateş Esin , Kızılcan Nilgün
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate in situ modification of cyclohexanone‐formaldehyde resins (CFR) by 4‐vinyl aniline (Van). The roles of the reaction temperature, the conductivity, thermal properties, and molecular weight of the product were investigated. CFR was in situ modified with VAn in the presence of sodium hydroxide. Ketonic resin‐bound 4‐vinyl aniline was synthesised with a one‐step method of in situ modification of ketonic resin. The roles of the reaction temperature and the conductivity of the product were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Ketone, formalin (37% aqueous solution), vinyl aniline were mixed and then 20% aqueous NaOH solution was added to produce the resin. The solubility, molecular weight and thermal properties of the products were investigated.

Findings

The 4‐vinyl aniline modified cyclohexanone‐formaldehyde resins were found to have conductivity values of 10−4 and 10−2 S/cm and may be considered as conductive ketonic resin. Soluble and processable conductive ketonic resins were developed.

Research limitations/implications

The reaction mixture of CFR must be stirred continuously at low temperature. Subsequently, 37% formalin was added dropwise in equal portions while refluxing. Temperature should be controlled to prevent the thermal polymerisation of vinyl group and higher branching of amino groups. The amount of vinyl aniline used in reaction mixture is limited since the formed resin may become insoluble in common organic solvents.

Practical implications

This study provides technical information for the synthesis of conducting resins. The modified resins contain vinyl groups. The chemical redox or radical system can be used to polymerise these vinyl groups and resins with much higher molecular weight may be produced. The resins may also promote the adhesive strength of a coating and corrosion inhibition to metal surfaces of a coating.

Originality/value

Vinyl aniline modified cyclohexanone formaldehyde resins have been synthesised in the presence of a basice catalyst. These soluble and conductive resins may overcome difficulties in the applications of conducting polymers and open new application areas. Therefore, the vinyl aniline modified resin may find a number of new application areas, as well as existing conducting resin and polymer applications.
Performance of nanosilica in acrylic polyol 2K polyurethane coatings
Authors: Kabra A.P. , Mahanwar P. , Shertukde V. , Bambole V.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate two component polyurethane coatings based on acrylic polyol, to study the effects of variable nanosilica loadings in these coatings on different morphological, optical, mechanical, corrosion resistance and weather resistance properties and to study the intercalation of acrylic polyol molecules into nanosilica crystals by XRD technique.

Design/methodology/approach

Two component polyurethane coatings were synthesised using acrylic polyol and isocyanate HDI. The nanosilica was incorporated in polyurethane formulation at the weight ratios of 1%, 3% and 5% based on total weight of polyol and isocyanate. The performance of nanocoatings was compared for variable loads of nanosilica for different properties such as morphological, optical, mechanical, corrosion resistance, weather resistance and were studied for intercalation of acrylic polyol into nanosilica crystals by XRD technique.

Findings

Improvement in the properties of polyurethane coatings is achieved with the incorporation of nanosilica. The improvement is the result of inherently high properties of inorganic nanosilica. Tensile strength, scratch hardness, abrasion resistance, corrosion and weathering resistance show significant improvement in performance with the incorporation of nanosilica. Properties are found to deteriorate beyond a certain loading of nanosilica; hence it is important to optimise loading level. The optimal range for high performance was found to be in the range of 1% to 3%. The improvement was a result of synergistic behaviour and good interfacial interaction between polyurethane and nanosilica at optimal levels.

Research limitations/implications

The method used for incorporation of nanosilica into polyurethane was direct incorporation method. The other method of incorporation, i.e. in situ addition and its effect on properties can also be studied.

Practical implications

With the addition of optimal loading level of nanosilica to polyurethane coatings, properties can be enhanced up to the mark. The addition is relatively easy and cost effective.

Originality/value

The paper proves the significance of incorporation of nanosilica on original properties of polyurethane coatings and widens the area of applications of two component polyurethane coatings from acrylic polyol by strengthening them in their properties. The coatings can be applicable in high performance topcoats especially for automotive topcoats.
Optimal design of radiation paint cure ovens using a novel objective function
Authors: Mehdipour R. , Aghanajafi C. , Ashrafizadeh A.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to model radiation ovens and to propose a method capable of designing this kind of oven for the paint curing application. Providing a uniform cure condition on the body, especially bodies of complicated geometries, needs accurately‐designed ovens. An algorithm with high speed and high convergence capability is the most serious requirement for designing ovens of this kind.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the state of the art in dynamic optimisation of radiation paint cure ovens is reviewed and a novel objective function, based on paint cure window, is proposed to be applied for designing radiation ovens. It has been shown that the proper definition of the objective function in such problems makes the mathematical model more robust and hence facilitates the convergence of the design iterations.

Findings

The computational results provide some information regarding the design space topology and show that the proposed objective function speeds up the convergence of the design procedure by an order of magnitude as compared to the currently used industrial‐standard objective function.

Practical implications

Determination of curing condition is an important requirement for designing a new oven or changing the working condition of an existing oven. In this research, a practical method is proposed for improving design procedure of cure ovens to make the method both time and cost efficient. The method is specifically implemented on paint cure ovens.

Originality/value

The quality of cured paint is usually a prominent issue that directly takes influence from the curing condition of ovens. For the complex geometries of curing body in commonly designed ovens, some areas are not properly cured or may be burnt. This issue is a significant defect in coating industry. Designing ovens with the proposed method in this paper guaranties the provided curing condition by the oven and therefore the curing quality.
Successful school leadership in Sweden and the US
Authors: Merchant Betty , Ärlestig Helene , Garza Encarnacion , Johansson Olof , Murakami‐Ramalho Elizabeth , Törnsén Monika
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this cross‐cultural study of schools in Sweden and Texas is to examine the cultural contexts of schools in both settings, and the leadership role of principals in creating and sustaining inclusive schools for diverse populations.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were drawn from two studies; the first involving school visits, classroom observations, and interviews conducted in researcher exchanges between both countries. The second source of data comes from the authors’ participation in a multi‐national longitudinal study, the International Successful School Principals’ Project (ISSPP). A common survey instrument, individual interviews, school visits and observations provide the data for this study.

Findings

The seven themes that emerged were manifested in ways that reflected the differing philosophies of each country: engagement and pride, high expectations, student autonomy, early student learning and development, teamwork, diversity and integration, and international focus on academic rankings. It is concluded that the creation of inclusive schools in a diverse context requires that principals maintain a focus on academic accountability while also working consciously to address social and civic issues.

Research limitations/implications

Current migration and immigration patterns create a need for research, like this study, that examines how the social philosophies of different countries might support or hinder the success of various efforts to develop leadership for inclusive schools with diverse populations.

Originality/value

Examining the leadership of inclusive schools within two countries that differ substantially in their relative emphases on individualism and socialism provides valuable insights into how national philosophies are reflected in the ways school systems respond to diversity.
“Democratic” collaboration for school turnaround in Southern Arizona
Authors: Bennett Jeffrey V.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the democratic nature of collaboration and related principal influences in one successful Southern Arizona elementary school in a changing demographic and border context in the US Southwest and where the principal did not share the same ethnic identity/cultural background.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study, using Furman's ethic of community framework, draws upon a secondary analysis of existing qualitative data from one urban elementary school as part of a larger multi‐case study. Participants included the Principal, Assistant Principal, eight teachers, and six parents.

Findings

Findings revealed limitations in democratic collaborative processes associated with school turnaround on account of principal pressure for compliance with personal agendas and packaged curricular reform expectations. Top‐down managerial practices sacrificed inclusion of stakeholders, community relationship building, and room for more authentic democratic grassroots innovation.

Originality/value

Furman's ethic of community enabled deeper analysis of democratic processes at a level typically not articulated in other case studies associated with the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP).
The construction of a public face as a school principal
Authors: Møller Jorunn
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how successful school leaders in Norway frame their public identity and how their narratives may be understood in relation to different discourses on leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach draws upon a theoretical perspective which asserts that there is a profound connection between identity and practice, and between identity and the construction of a number of narratives (Wenger; Bourdieu and Wacquant). The author has combined analyses of public discourses on school leadership with findings based on the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP) to analyze the school principal's construction of a public face.

Findings

The study demonstrates how the public identity and face of a school principal is multiple, subjectively constructed and intersects with public discourses. Moreover, it highlights why principals need greater capability to lead their schools in a dynamic context by being the figure head and representing the organization (Mintzberg). The ISSPP study has constructed many accounts of principals’ thinking about successful leadership and achievement. The principals’ stories partly intersect with public narratives of heroic leadership, but by highlighting their work in teams, they primarily intersect with the notion of distributed leadership. A striking feature was the principals’ commitment to making a difference for the kids and their hard work within the system to balance all of the demands placed on their shoulders in order to ensure more equitable learning environments for all students.

Research limitations/implications

The study indicates the importance of principals being reflexive about their own positions. There is a need to locate personal experience within wider relations of power. The creation of educational biographies may serve as an approach to helping principals understand how and why they learned in the past and what motivates them to pursue new educational opportunities.

Originality/value

A focus on identities and their development can tap the complexity of school leadership in a tumultuous, high‐stakes environment of accountability.
Intrapersonal factors in New Zealand school leadership success
Authors: Notman Ross
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share New Zealand findings from the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP) which relate to intrapersonal dimensions of leadership that promote principals’ sustained success over time.

Design/methodology/approach

Multi‐site case study methods were used to describe the ongoing success of ten educational leaders, using ISSPP qualitative protocols for data gathering and cross‐case inductive analysis.

Findings

Findings identified the following influential intrapersonal factors that impacted positively on principals’ leadership behaviours over time: their physical, mental and intellectual well‐being; their levels of resiliency; and critical self‐reflection.

Practical implications

In light of these research findings, it is argued that these intrapersonal factors of a successful principalship are optimised when supported by an external agent.

Originality/value

First, there are few research studies that have investigated how school principals maintain their success over time; second, principals traditionally receive mentoring or coaching support in their professional work but less so in their personal development. This paper advances a case for an external agent to help critique a principal's personal paradigm in order to promote well‐being in the form of increased self‐awareness and an understanding of why they think and act as they do.
Localisation policy in Oman: a psychological contracting interpretation
Authors: Swailes Stephen , Al Said L.G. , Al Fahdi Saleh
Published: June 2012

Purpose

Successful localization policies are critical to the resolution of difficult social problems in the Gulf States relating to rising populations and youth unemployment. Successful localization is proving difficult, however, and this paper aims to look specifically at Omanization in an effort to contribute to a better understanding of a complex socio‐economic arena.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on 25 interviews with Ministerial officials and senior private sector managers with human resource management responsibilities in Oman. Interviews were open‐coded to allow factors specific to Oman to emerge from the data.

Findings

Key findings are that the perceptions of the employability of locals remains a difficult supply side problem and employers' preferences for foreign labour remains a difficult demand side problem.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is strengthened by the involvement of senior managers yet it is difficult to separate stereotypes of local labour from stereotypes of foreign workers.

Practical implications

The insights reported in the paper identify key areas for further development of localization policy.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new perspective on the difficulties of localization in the Gulf States.
Effect of governance models on enhancing water service delivery
Authors: Elina Herrala Maila , Jouni Olavi Haapasalo Harri
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The ownership of waterworks is topical in many countries and especially developed countries seem to speak for public ownership instead of private ownership. This paper attempts to provide a new view of the debate between public and private ownership by presenting three public governance models and comparing them in the light of waterworks performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is qualitative in nature and presents SWOT analyses of three different public governance models used in the Finnish water sector. Empirical evidence was collected mainly through interviewing Finnish waterworks managers.

Findings

The results indicate that there are clear differences between the autonomy and transparency of the most common public governance models. Reforming waterworks organised as municipal units into municipal‐owned enterprises and municipal‐owned companies is considered a good option compared to, for example, privatisation or outsourcing.

Practical implications

According to this study, restructuring appears to increase business orientation, improve accuracy in bookkeeping and, in some cases, increase transparency. The selection of the right governance model also provides opportunities for institutional investors.

Originality/value

While previous research has concentrated on comparing public and private ownership, this paper presents and discusses three public governance models and what kind of opportunities they present to public service provision.
Enhanced solder wettability of oxidized‐copper with lead‐free solder via Ar‐H2 plasmas for flip‐chip bumping: the effects of H2 flow rates
Authors: Lin Y.S. , Lin W.J. , Chiu L.Y.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of H2 flow rate on improving the solder wettability of oxidized‐copper with liquid lead‐free solder (96.5Sn‐3Ag‐0.5Cu) by Ar‐H2 plasmas. The aim was to improve the solder wettability of oxidized copper from 0 per cent wetting of copper oxidized in air at 260oC for 1 hour to 100 per cent wetting of oxidized‐copper modified by Ar‐H2 plasmas at certain H2 flow rates and to find correlations between the surface characteristics of copper and the solder wettability with liquid lead‐free solder.

Design/methodology/approach

To reduce the copper oxides on the surfaces of oxidized‐copper for improving solder wettability with liquid lead‐free solder, this study attempted to apply Ar‐H2 plasmas to ablate the copper oxides from the surfaces of oxidized‐copper by the physical bombardment of the Ar plasmas and to reduce the surfaces of oxidized‐copper by the chemical reaction of H2 plasmas with the surfaces of oxidized‐copper.

Findings

The solder wettability of oxidized‐copper was found to be highly dependent on the surface characteristics of the copper. The values of polar surface free energy and dispersive surface free energy on the surfaces of oxidized‐copper modified by Ar‐H2 plasmas were close to those values of solid lead‐free solder, which resulted in improved solder wettability with liquid lead‐free solder. Auger spectra indicated that the Ar‐H2 plasma modification was used to remove the copper oxides from the surfaces of oxidized‐copper.

Originality/value

The surface characterization of copper surfaces is typically determined by expensive surface analysis tool such as Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES). This paper reports the results of a study of a promising technique called the sessile drop test method, for examining the surface free energies such as total surface free energy, polar surface free energy and dispersive surface free energy on the surfaces of copper to clarify how the solder wettability of oxidized‐copper with liquid lead‐free solder was enhanced by Ar‐H2 plasmas.
The effect of micro via‐in pad designs on surface‐mount assembly defects: part I – tombstoning
Authors: Lee Yong‐Won , Kim Keun‐Soo , Suganuma Katsuaki
Published: June 2012

Purpose

To propose a solution procedure to minimize/eliminate tombstoning defects in small chip components with different micro via‐in pad designs for high density module assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

Four different micro via‐in pad designs were compared (via‐hole diameter): ultra small via‐in pads (10 μm), small via‐in pads (20 μm) and large via‐in pads (60 μm), as well as designs with no via‐in pads and capped via‐in pads. Two process variables were also evaluated for the goal of achieving a high‐yield assembly solution in micro via‐in pad and lead‐free solder conditions. Potential factors such as the preheat conditions of the reflow profile and stencil aperture size, which might affect tombstoning in components with micro via‐in pads, were investigated.

Findings

The results indicated that the micro via‐in pad design significantly increased the tombstoning; thus, tombstoning did not occur in components with both no via‐in pads and capped via‐in pads. Capped via‐in pads exhibited the best results in preventing tombstoning and provided a wide process window for the selection of process parameters. The results showed that tombstoning was found to decrease with both increasing stencil opening ratio and use of reflow profile with long‐preheat condition.

Originality/value

The paper's findings provide certain process guidelines for high density module assemblies with via‐in pad design. The strategy is to prevent tombstoning by adopting capped via‐in pad design if possible when employing micro via‐in pad technology.
The effect of praseodymium (Pr) additions on shear strength and microstructure of SnAgCu joints during the ageing process
Authors: Gao Li‐li , Xue Song‐bai , Zhu Hong
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of praseodymium (Pr) additions (0, 0.05 and 0.5 wt%) on the mechanical properties and microstructure of SnAgCu solder joint during aging process. Moreover, the authors aim to indicate that the decreased soldification undercooling of Sn3.8Ag0.7Cu solder can suppress the formation of Ag3Sn plate to some extent.

Design/methodology/approach

The shear strength evolution of SAC, SAC‐0.05Pr and SAC‐0.5Pr solder joint were studied under 150°C aging process with STR‐1000. The effect of Pr additions on the solidification behavior of SnAgCu solder was also studied by differential scanning calorimetry. To study the microstructure evolution, the cross‐sections of all specimens were observed by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Meanwhile, the etchant, consisting of 20%HNO3+distilled water was used for deep etching to reveal the interfacial morphology.

Findings

The shear force reduction rate of SAC solder joint during aging was restrained by 0.05%Pr addition but promoted with 0.5% Pr addition. The growth of IMC layer of SnAgCu joint in the aging process was suppressed signiﬁcantly by different amounts of Pr additions. However, the beneficial effect of Pr addition due to the suppression of IMC layer growth was weakened by the micro‐cracks formed in PrSn3 compounds in SnAgCu‐0.5Pr joint. Pr additions (0.05, 0.5 wt%) decrease the solidification undercooling of SnAgCu solder, which will suppress the formation of Ag3Sn plate to some extent.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies are necessary for confirmation of the practical application, especially of the manufacturing technology of solder paste containing Pr.

Practical implications

The appropriate amount of Pr in Sn3.8Ag0.7Cu solder is about 0.05 wt%. It is found that SAC‐0.05Pr solder has an improvement in solder joint reliability in long aging processes. The results suggested the novel solder alloys can meet the requirements of high reliability application.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that: Pr additions promote the solidification of SAC solder; shear force reduction rate of SAC solder joint was reduced by 0.05%Pr addition; the IMC layer growth rate of SnAgCu solder joint was suppressed by Pr additions; and micro‐cracks were found in PrSn3 phases after aging.
Systematic mechanical design approach for a flexible printed circuit board assemblies (PCBA) rework cell: part II – conceptual design of soldering and desoldering system
Authors: Geren Necdet , Sarıgül Çağdaş , Bayramoğlu Melih
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply the developed systematic mechanical design methodologies, that are obtained in part I, to investigate their success in designing mechanics of a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) rework cell.

Design/methodology/approach

The decision of soldering and desoldering tool, which is the most critical function of a PCBA rework or remanufacturing cell, significantly influences overall design concept. Therefore, the paper starts by applying the design methodology to the soldering and desoldering function. The same study is repeated for the rest of the sub‐functions but only the results are provided.

Findings

An application of rework machine design methodology for the design of a PCBA rework cell has been made available. In addition to this, the embedded knowledge, such as the requirements list, the function structure, the function/means tree, the weighted objective tree and evaluation chart for the soldering and desoldering function are provided.

Practical implications

The paper is the first work providing both embedded knowledge and the application of the systematic design methodology for the design of a fully automated flexible PCBA rework cell. The methodology leads rework machine designers in a well‐controlled and structured design environment.

Originality/value

The design methodology can be applied to all functions or targeted on key weighted areas to ensure that the designed rework machine meets the key areas of concerns. Furthermore, the methodology is generic and may be used to develop other complex manufacturing sytems.
The fallacy of the service economy: a materialist perspective
Authors: Solberg Søilen Klaus
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this article, which is based in the tradition of critical theory, is to present a number of reasons for preserving a strong production economy given that the aim of the nation state is to work for improved competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The critical theory approach is used in this paper.

Findings

The paper is also an attempt to show why a majority of Western countries have defended the transformation from a predominant production economy to a service economy by explaining the shift as a result of class interests, using new class theory. It argues for why a materialist perspective in economic theory is relevant today.

Research limitations/implications

The Western world should focus more on the production economy and less on the service economy.

Originality/value

To the author's knowledge, no other paper has gathered as many arguments on the issue before.
Structural equation modeling in social science research
Authors: Babin Barry J. , Svensson Göran
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and discuss a few principal and crucial steps of “antecedents” and “postcedents” in relation to structural equation modeling (SEM) in social science research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based upon a conceptual and reflective discussion of SEM in social sciences research.

Findings

SEM is not science per se, but just a tool that is used to extract meaning from the previous steps of research processes in terms of a research phenomenon in focus.

Research limitations/implications

Based upon the steps of validity and reliability discussed in relation to predetermined measurement and structural models in SEM, application implications are provided.

Practical implications

Like many statistical tools, SEM can be misused to manipulate findings and fit of measurement and structural models. Researchers may become more interested in the tool than in the subject matter.

Originality/value

Using SEM does not elevate research to be science or make the researcher a scientist! An area of concern for further debate is whether the widespread and variable applications of SEM in social science (in particular, marketing) research are all science.
Commitment to business ethics in UK organizations
Authors: Whyatt Georgina , Wood Greg , Callaghan Michael
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine the commitment to business ethics in UK corporations. This study reports on the responses of those organizations that participated in the survey and possessed a code of ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

An unsolicited questionnaire was sent to the top 500 private sector organizations by market capitalization in the UK. A total of 92 companies responded, of which 56 possessed a code of ethics.

Findings

The empirical findings indicate that the processes involved in developing business ethics commitment have begun to be recognized and acted upon at an organizational level. The supporting measures of business ethics commitment appear to be under‐utilized by many of these UK organizations. This suggests that many organizations have not so far developed a strong organizational commitment to embedding their codes of ethics into organizational practices.

Research limitations/implications

While the responses provided a rich picture of organizational actions, further research exploring internal culture and attitudes would add to an understanding of organizational commitment.

Practical implications

It is found that in order to influence practice, it is not enough to have the artefacts of an ethical culture, such as codes, without ensuring that all employees are assisted in understanding what is required of them.

Originality/value

Despite a history of business ethics research, there are a limited number of studies seeking to understand UK companies' commitment to ethical codes. The paper provides guidance on steps that organizations can take to develop a higher level of commitment.
Innovation within the Australian outdoor hospitality parks industry
Authors: Brooker Edward , Joppe Marion , Davidson Michael C.G. , Marles Kathy
Published: June 2012

Purpose

Traditional innovation typologies within the extant literature are not compatible with the innovation levels found within the Australian outdoor hospitality parks (OHP) sector, given its tourism and small business characteristics. This paper seeks to introduce an innovation typology specific to the Australian OHP sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A two‐phase qualitative research method was employed, whereby 30 semi‐structured interviews were conducted with OHP operators/administrators who were identified as being “innovative” by four industry executives. Based on the 30 interviews carried out in Phase 1, six industry individuals who demonstrated a wider and deeper approach to innovation than the others were further interviewed in Phase 2.

Findings

A small percentage of Australian OHP industry operators and executive officers showcase a level of innovation that is beyond incremental in character, but is not radical, revolutionary or disruptive. This group of “strategic innovators” are the first to adopt ideas from other sources and adapt them to fit within the Australian context. These new ideas are introduced in three‐ to four‐year increments, providing the individuals with sufficient time to assess the market's reaction to the changes, and to measure increased value to their situation. The three‐ to four‐year time span dovetails with the length of time taken by the majority of competitors to imitate the new concepts.

Originality/value

The paper introduces an innovation typology applicable to the Australian outdoor hospitality parks sector.
Perceived organizational support, career satisfaction, and performance outcomes
Authors: Karatepe Osman M.
Published: June 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop and test a research model that examines career satisfaction as a mediator of the effect of perceived organizational support on service recovery performance and job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data obtained from frontline hotel employees with a time lag of one month and their immediate supervisors in Cameroon, the hypothesized relationships were tested using LISREL 8.30 through structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results suggested that the fully mediated model had a better fit to the data when compared to the partially mediated model. As hypothesized, perceived organizational support influenced service recovery performance and job performance only via career satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Investigating the study relationships over a longer period of time than was done in this study would be useful for making causal inferences conclusively. Replication studies with larger sample sizes in different hospitality and tourism settings in Cameroon and other countries in sub‐Saharan Africa would be beneficial for broadening the database for further generalizations.

Practical implications

Managers should make sure that they recognize employees' good work or efforts continuously. They should also ensure that employees participate in decisions that may affect the service delivery process. It is also critical to have a pool of employees with work experience gained in foreign countries. Employees who worked in other hotels in foreign countries would acquire new skills and thus have higher career satisfaction in the current organization.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the hospitality management and marketing literature by examining the mediating role of career satisfaction in the relationship between perceived organizational support and two organizationally valued performance outcomes, i.e. service recovery performance and job performance.