bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sick building syndrome in open‐plan offices
Authors: Gou Zhonghua , Siu‐Yu Lau Stephen 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to present a sick building syndrome (SBS) survey in open‐plan offices. The design factors (indoor plants, workstation partitions, and operable windows) that predict SBS were described for architects and interior designers, and the indoor environmental characteristics (thermal comfort, air quality, noise and lighting) that contribute to SBS symptoms were also investigated.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a standard Building Use Studies (BUS) questionnaire that included sick building syndrome symptoms, environmental satisfaction and perception, and background information about the respondents and their office space. The questionnaire was conducted in 30 offices of building‐related professionals in Hong Kong. There were 469 Chinese office workers that participated.FindingsIndoor plants and operable windows were related to a reduction of SBS symptoms; while workstation partitions did not affect the incidence of SBS symptoms. There were fewer sick building syndrome symptoms reported in the more satisfied respondents.Originality/valueThis study highlights a perception‐based solution for facilities design and management.
Analysis of risks associated with facilities management outsourcing
Authors: Ikediashi Dubem I. , Ogunlana Stephen O. , Boateng Prince , Okwuashi Onuwa 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyse the risk factors associated with outsourcing of facilities management (FM) services.Design/methodology/approachThe study administered questionnaires on 146 registered members of International Facilities Management Association (IFMA), Nigeria chapter, who carry out their professional practice in Lagos, Nigeria. The survey, conducted in February, 2011 targeted facilities managers, property managers, maintenance officers and procurement officers cutting across the three levels of management. A total of 61 of them returned valid questionnaires, giving a response rate of 41.8 percent.FindingsFindings reveal that “poor quality of services” was rated the most critical risk factor associated with facilities management outsourcing, while “security” and “inexperience” closely followed in that order. Also, there was no significant difference in the rankings of the stakeholders on more than 75 percent of the factors.Research limitations/implicationsMost practitioners would have been left out of the survey due to non‐registration with IFMA due to the seeming novelty of facilities management practice in Nigeria.Originality/valueThis paper provides an unambiguous empirical‐based analysis of outsourcing risks from the perspective of facilities management practice in Nigeria.
Shared services: lessons from private sector for public sector domain
Authors: Mustafa Kamal Muhammad 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is primarily to analyse the implementation of shared services models in business enterprises or private sector and the benefits realised, thereafter; to a greater extent, focusing on the lessons learnt from such operations and exploring the potential of applying similar models in the public sector.Design/methodology/approachThis research attempts to examine whether or not the concepts regarding shared service in the private sector are valid and applicable in the public sector.FindingsEven though the shared services concept and related models are significantly prevalent across the business enterprises or private sector and government sector, the author argues that the shared services model developed in the private sector may further significantly facilitate governments and public agencies in dealing with the recent changes (i.e. due to global financial crisis) in their environments and to become more effective and efficient.Originality/valueThis paper brings together some of the key discussions from the business and private sector on shared services and discusses their applicability in the public sector context.
A case study of Bayesian belief networks in industrial work process design based on utility expectation and operational performance
Authors: Quintana Rolando , Leung Mark T. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe primary purpose of this study is to illustrate a practical approach for industrial work process design that, in an integrative manner, captures essential concerns from different parties associated with manufacturing. It aims explicitly to incorporate utility expectation from the perspectives of operational managers, floor workers, and financial planners into the decision making process.Design/methodology/approachThrough a real industrial scenario, the case study illustrates the use of a Bayesian belief network (BBN)‐based expert system and influence diagram in work process design. What‐if analysis is performed. Statistical tests are then used to benchmark and validate the experimental results and actual data.FindingsThe results suggest that the proposed BBN framework is effective in modeling and solving the work design problem. The findings can draw meaningful insights into the adoption and capacity of BBN in the fields of ergonomics, worker health management, and performance improvement.Practical implicationsPractically, the industrial problem is to compare the new stand‐up sewing cells against the traditional sit‐down sewing layout while taking into consideration of ergonomic effect (repetitive motion injury (RMI) likelihood), floor space (SF), yield (%), and cost ($). The study illustrates the use of an expert system and influence diagram to evaluate different alternatives for ergonomic work design in production process.Social implicationsThe results of this study can potentially improve health safety management and worker ergonomics.Originality/valueThe paper is among the few systematic studies that have applied BBN and influence diagram to production ergonomics and worker health management. A methodological framework utilizing these probabilistic reasoning techniques are developed. This new framework can capture essential concerns from different parties in manufacturing.
Determinants of ownership structure and performance of seasoned equity offerings
Authors: Abidin Sazali , Reddy Krishna , Chen Liehui 
Published: September 2012

PurposeSince the initiation of the share split reform by the Chinese Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) in 2005, the private placement has become the major source of raising equity after IPO. The purpose of this paper is to investigate why listed firms in China prefer private placements compared to other options of raising capital.Design/methodology/approachThe ordinary least squares regression, the piecewise regression and the cross‐sectional regression analysis were undertaken to investigate the determinants and characteristics of the seasoned‐equity offerings announcement effects. Probit regression analysis was taken to estimate the probability of a firm choosing private placements.FindingsThe authors find positive significant announcement abnormal returns for private placement. The findings also indicate that operating performance deteriorates immediately after announcement and poor operating performance is more likely to be contributed by large size portfolios, which suggests size effect.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper's evidence contributes to an understanding of the wider implication of the share split reform undertaken by the CSRC.Practical implicationsThe paper provides insights for policy makers in China and around the world who have and wish to adopt similar practices within their jurisdictions. Similar research can be conducted in other emerging markets to enable better understanding and implications of seasoned equity offerings on firm financial performance.Originality/valueThe paper is novel in regard to the data and the wider research paradigm used.
Modeling moneyness volatility in measuring exchange rate volatility
Authors: Hoque Ariful , Krishnamurti Chandrasekhar 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce a model to measure foreign exchange (FX) rate volatility accurately. The FX rate volatility forecasting is a crucial endeavour in financial markets and has gained the attention of researchers and practitioners over the last several decades. The implied volatility (IV) measure is widely believed to be the best measure of exchange rate volatility. Despite its widespread usage, the IV approach suffers from an obvious chicken‐egg problem: obtaining an unbiased IV requires the options to be priced correctly and calculating option prices accurately requires an unbiased IV.Design/methodology/approachThe authors contribute to the literature by developing a new model for FX rate volatility – the “moneyness volatility (MV)”. This approach is based on measuring the variability of forward‐looking “moneyness” rather than use of options price. To assess volatility forecasting performance of MV against IV, the in‐sample and out‐of‐sample tests are involved using the F‐test, Granger‐Newbold test and Diebold‐Mariano framework.FindingsThe MV model outperforms the IV in FX rate volatility forecasting ability in both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample tests. The F‐test, Granger‐Newbold test and Diebold‐Mariano test results consistently reveal that MV outperforms IV in estimating as well as forecasting exchange rate volatility for six major currency options. Furthermore, in Mincer‐Zarnowitz regressions, MV outperforms IV and time‐series models in predicting future volatility.Originality/valueThe authors’ pioneering approach in modeling exchange rate volatility has far‐reaching implications for academicians, professional traders, and financial risk analysts and managers.
Exploring gender differences in attitudes of university students towards entrepreneurship
Authors: Dabic Marina , Daim Tugrul , Bayraktaroglu Elvan , Novak Ivan , Basic Maja 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand gender differences in entrepreneurial intentions as measured by perceived feasibility and perceived desirability, and to explore gender differences in perceptions of entrepreneurship education needs – in terms of programmes, activities or projects – to succeed in an entrepreneurial career from the university student's point of view.Design/methodology/approachUsing data gathered from 3,420 university students in more than ten countries, and applying the Mann‐Whitney non‐parametric test, differences between genders and different intention groups were examined. To reduce the items regarding educational needs, factor analysis was used. Gender differences in educational needs were also examined via Mann‐Whitney Test.FindingsThe results confirm that compared to males, female students are less willing to start their own businesses. There are significant gender differences in terms of perceived feasibility and perceived desirability such that although they feel more supported by their families, females are less self‐confident, more tense, reluctant and concerned about entrepreneurship. In terms of entrepreneurial intention, there are fewer gender differences among students; however, differences relating to self‐confidence and family support still exist. Furthermore, students cited establishing entrepreneurial mentoring and an appropriate tutoring structure as the most needed entrepreneurial educational activity/program/project at an academic institution; this was rated higher by females compared to males.Practical implicationsThe findings of this paper could help guide educators and policy makers in designing effective entrepreneurship programmes that are customized to respond to gender specific needs to increase entrepreneurial participation.Originality/valueThis study reveals the gender differences in perceived desirability and perceived feasibility which impact entrepreneurial intentions. Gender differences in the entrepreneurial programmes/activities/projects required at an academic institution to promote entrepreneurial participation among university students is also explored.
Fathers for good? Exploring the impact of becoming a father on young offenders' desistance from crime
Authors: Helyar‐Cardwell Vicki 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis paper's aim is to explore the available evidence on whether becoming a young father can enhance desistance.Design/methodology/approachRecent literature on young fathers in the justice system was reviewed, alongside the major desistance theories. The findings from the review were explored in five semi‐structured interviews with five young fathers under probation supervision.FindingsDespite the correlation between young fatherhood and offending, very little research has been conducted into the impact of young fatherhood on desistance from crime. Overall, there are good indicators that fatherhood can be a motivational “hook” for enhancing desistance.Originality/valueVery little is known about the experience or context of fatherhood amongst young male offenders, nor about the relation between young fatherhood and desistance from crime. This paper fills some of the gaps.
Geocachers: the creative tourism experience
Authors: Ihamäki Pirita 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the geocaching online survey – the implications of geocaching to social interaction and tourism as useful for making small segments such as adventure tourists (geocachers) active participants in the development process of creative tourism experience in adventure tourist destinations.Design/methodology/approachThe case study approach presented is an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary problem within its real‐time context. The main goal of this case study was to gain detailed understanding of the current and future geocacher's positive and memorable experiences in the creative tourism context. This case study was gathered by internet survey for geocachers in October 2009, and is based on 52 responses. The study was approved by the Unit of Human‐Centred Technology, Tampere University of Technology. Geocaching players were told that their responses would be kept confidential. Secondary material is based on geocaching stories in magazines all over the world, linked to Geocaching.com, that are used here to expand the description of creative tourism products and of how geocaching is used in tourism or to design new applications around the game.FindingsThe main contributions of this study are the increased knowledge of creative tourism, especially geocacher's needs regarding sharing positive and memorable geocaching experiences, and the new creative tourism services and events by creating geocachers.Practical implicationsThe paper's findings are used to discuss broader implications for location‐based creative tourism experiences and present guidelines based on results of case study.Originality/valueThe paper discusses how geocachers created a new format in adventure tourism and in the wellness tourism business.
The impact of hotel property size in determining the importance of electronic distribution channels
Authors: Kim Hong‐bumm , Ham Sunny , Moon Hye‐young 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the use of electronic distribution systems (EDS) in Korean hotels and investigate the differences between large and small and medium (S&M) hotels.Design/methodology/approachThis is a qualitative and explorative study. An in‐depth interview was conducted of seven large hotels and nine S&M hotels.FindingsRegardless of size, the surveyed hotels received, on average, more reservations through offline systems than online. It was found that large hotels showed less variation in the use of EDS than S&M hotels. While there was no distinct difference in the overall use of EDS, in terms of average, the highest percentage of hotel EDS use was demonstrated by S&M hotels. Regarding specific components and distribution flows, large hotels overall employed a variety of distribution channels, often implemented in multi‐faceted systems. S&M hotels, in most cases, adopted simpler distribution flows, i.e. hotel web sites and online travel agencies. This difference seems to be the result of the affiliation of primarily large hotels with huge hotel corporations.Research limitations/implicationsAn emphasis has been placed on the current use of an EDS within S&M hotels, given their greater competitive challenge with regards to their larger counterparts.Practical implicationsMeaningful implications are made that building an extensive and effective information system appropriate to the size and type of the hotel's operations is especially needed by S&M hotels.Originality/valueThe paper addresses EDS issues specifically for S&M hotels.
A study of compliance with AAOIFI accounting standards by Islamic banks in Bahrain
Authors: Vinnicombe Thea 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an extension of a previous study by the author into compliance by Islamic banks in Bahrain with accounting standards issued by the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI).Design/methodology/approachA number of compliance indexes are constructed to better understand compliance by the sample banks. The use of multiple indexes addresses methodological shortcomings identified in the previous study.FindingsCompliance is found to be higher for some Islamic issues than for others. In a relative sense, compliance is found to be similar to that for the region with standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample is limited to Islamic financial institutions in Bahrain. This is necessitated by the lack of adaptation elsewhere. The relatively high compliance found in Bahrain suggests broader adoption would be successful and would contribute to the overall regulation of the Islamic financial sector.Originality/valueThe AAOIFI has existed for over 20 years, but little empirical research had been conducted into compliance with the standards developed by this body. This paper, along with the previous study by the author, helps address this gap.
Two sides to the same coin: relational and physical aggression in the media
Authors: Coyne Sarah M. , Stockdale Laura , Nelson David A. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis review aims to examine how aggression is portrayed in the media and how it can influence behavior and attitudes regarding aggression.Design/methodology/approachThe authors reviewed the relevant literature and examined both physical and relational forms of aggression in multiple media forms (television, film, video games, music, books).FindingsAcross media types, evidence is found that both physical and relational aggression are portrayed frequently and in ways that may contribute to subsequent aggression. Furthermore, though there are studies finding no effect of exposure to media aggression, evidence is found that watching physical and relational aggression in the media can contribute to aggressive behavior. Prominent media aggression theories are reviewed and some of these theories are applied to relational aggression media effects.Research limitations/implicationsResearchers should no longer ignore relational aggression in terms of the media, in terms of content and associations with aggressive behavior. Researchers should also focus on understudied media forms, such as music and books.Practical implicationsPolicy makers should take careful note of the research on media and aggression when deciding on public policy and clinicians should inquire about media habits when clients show problematic aggressive behavior (physical or relational).Originality/valueThis paper is a valuable source of information regarding current research on media and aggression. Unlike other reviews, it focuses on multiple types of aggression (physical and relational) and multiple media types (TV, movies, video games, music, and books).
CSR‐OHS
Authors: Amponsah‐Tawiah Kwesi , Dartey‐Baah Kwasi 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to trace the path to achieving the millennium development goals (MDG) in developing countries through the lens of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and organisation health and safety (OHS).Design/methodology/approachThe paper employed discourse analysis of views of participants of the workshop on CSR‐OHS project in Accra, funded by the British Council's Development Partnership in Higher Education (DelPHE). The analysis was shaped by the various theorizations and conceptualisations of CSR and OHS in developed and developing countries, in order to establish any link between CSR‐OHS and the MDG.FindingsThe paper established some linkage between CSR, OHS and the MDG. Although the paper observed divergence in practice between the two concepts of CSR and OHS, Ghanaians viewed OHS as a key competing dimension of CSR. Problem areas were identified with respect to OHS implementation and regulations and standardization proposed for its improvement. The paper calls for the provision of effective and efficient OHS services and the introduction of OHS courses in the curricula of higher educational institutions as a national strategy.Originality/valueThe paper demonstrates the relevance of OHS in the CSR concept as a tool for achieving the MDGs.
Corporate sustainability management: evidence from Germany
Authors: Kraus Patrick , Britzelmaier Bernd 
Published: September 2012

PurposeSustainability has become a hot topic in business administration theory. However, there is still a lack of knowledge on how companies can manage sustainability properly. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is two fold. First, it provides an updated discussion on the potential business case for sustainability. Second, it analyses the current state of the implementation of sustainability management in Germany.Design/methodology/approachBased on literature review, the paper aims to answer two research questions: are there indications for a business case for sustainability, and what is the current state of implementation of sustainability management in Germany?FindingsA business case for sustainability seems, in principle, plausible, especially with regard to an individual company basis. The discussion of recent empirical studies in Germany may lead to the conclusion that sustainability management is not yet implemented comprehensively. Remarkably, the management control and finance departments are almost completely uninvolved in the implementation of sustainability.Research limitations/implicationsEmpirical research is not provided. The paper proposes to conduct qualitative empirical studies for further research to address the research problem.Originality/valueThe paper integrates German and international literature and therefore represents a comprehensive base for further research. It also brings a number of empirical studies about the implementation of sustainability management, conducted in the German language, into the international discussion.