bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rehg admirably takes the science wars to a new level
Authors: Farrell Thomas J. 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to discuss certain key issues involved in the science wars; second, to review William Rehg's Cogent Science in Context: The Science Wars, Argumentation Theory, and Habermas (Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press, Cambridge, 2009).Design/methodology/approachIn accord with the genre of a review paper, the author sets the larger intellectual context of Rehg's book, and then highlights Rehg's book.FindingsThe findings suggest that Rehg has done an excellent job of explaining and expanding Habermas's argumentation theory, thereby working out a nonrelativist and nonskeptical framework for science studies (e.g. science and technology studies, studies in the sociology of scientific knowledge, and ethnomethodological studies of scientific work). However, the present author's findings also suggest that Rehg has not addressed the concerns of Protestant fundamentalists in the science wars as strongly as those concerns can be addressed. In addition, the present author's findings show that Rehg is silent about those academic critics in the science wars who criticize scientism in the pejorative sense of the term.Originality/valueIn the final analysis, Rehg's use of Habermas's argumentation theory is credited with offering rich implications for taking the science wars to a new level of sophistication.
Considering leaving before they've even started: an examination of freshmen at risk for transfer
Authors: Chang Yiting , Lerer Nava , Talley Kathryn 
Published: October 2010

PurposeMost retention literature compares students who remain at an institution with those who leave. This paper seeks to extend the analysis by focusing on freshmen who leave in order to transfer to another institution. Using person‐centered and variable centered approaches, it aims to examine subgroups to determine variables contributing to different transfer rates.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through surveys, and a quantitative approach was used to analyze the data.FindingsBy the unique nature of the sample (i.e. students contemplating transfer to another institution even before their freshman year at Adelphi begins) and utilization of person‐centered and variable‐centered analytic approaches, the current results provide both practical and methodological implications for student retention.Originality/valueThis is an original work which was previously presented at the 2006 Northeast Association of Institutional Association annual conference.
Development of analytical relation between maintenance, quality and productivity
Authors: Rotab Khan M.R. , Darrab Ibrahim A. 
Published: October 2010

PurposeFactory management needs to find the technically feasible point up to which maintenance and quality activity levels of a factory should be selected to achieve highest productivity with a view to fulfil company objectives for higher profitability. This research paper aims to report the development of an analytical relation between maintenance, quality and productivity.Design/methodology/approachAn analytical relation is designed and developed incorporating graphical analysis and regression analysis to support outputs of graphical method, which creates an appropriate model. A mixed research approach is used, including application of a practical case example.FindingsThe study displays a wide range of productivity performance profiles with the strategic aim of identifying the technically feasible highest productivity result obtained. It has formulated an important analytical link, and suggested a few recommendations. The formulated model predicts the best possible productivity result out of maintenance and quality‐related practical data of a factory. The analysis enables managers to analyze, compare and identify improvement opportunities in order to enjoy competitive advantages.Practical implicationsModern factory managers, particularly in food production, who live in a world of rapid changes, extensive interactions and complex situations, and face everyday challenges in a competitive global market, can use this model as a hands‐on tool for measurement, evaluation, logically better and proper realistic planning and implementation of maintenance and quality activities to attain maximum manufacturing productivity for their companies.Originality/valueThe model is the result of an attempt to design and develop, fulfil identified technical managerial needs and offer practical help to make logical decisions. Evidence from the literature confirms that this is a newer outlook on analytical diagnostic tools, which demonstrates the weaknesses in existing factory production system and thus helps in identifying key areas for productivity improvements. Therefore, this research is one step to further the potential and practical value added contribution in food and other industries.
Minimizing completion time with maintenance schedule in a manufacturing system
Authors: Chen Wen‐Jinn 
Published: October 2010

PurposeIn practical environments, machines subject to maintenance are prevalent in many production systems. This paper aims to find a schedule that minimizes the completion time (or equivalently, the total setup time) subject to maintenance and due dates.Design/methodology/approachAn efficient heuristic is presented to provide the near‐optimal solution for the problem. The performance of the heuristic is evaluated by comparing its solution with the optimal solution obtained from the integer linear programming model.FindingsIn many production systems, the sequence‐dependent setup time of a job cannot be ignored when a switch between two different jobs occurs. The paper studies the sequence‐dependent setup time problem with periodic maintenance, where several maintenances are required. Computational results show that problems with larger time interval and smaller maintaining time can produce a smaller completion time.Practical implicationsHere an efficient heuristic is developed to provide the near‐optimal schedule for the problem. The proposed integer linear programming model is also presented to provide the optimal schedule. However, the proposed heuristic and the integer linear programming model developed in the paper are appropriate for those companies where maintenance is performed periodically and the sequence‐dependent setup times of their jobs are required.Originality/valueThe paper presents the heuristic and the integer linear programming model to deal with sequencing and maintenance problems.
Optimal redundancy allocation in complex systems
Authors: Agarwal Manju , Aggarwal Sudhanshu , Sharma Vikas K. 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on solving highly constrained redundancy optimization problems in binary complex systems.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed algorithm searches a possibly improved solution in thek‐neighborhood (k≥2) of the current best feasible solution, by adding one unit in a selected subsystem and eliminating one from some other subsystem(s).FindingsThe algorithm is tested on complex system structures from the literature by solving a set of problems (with both linear and non‐linear constraints), with given and randomly generated data. It is observed that, compared with the other existing heuristics, there is much overall improvement in various performance measures.Practical implicationsThe proposed algorithm is a better alternative and can be easily and efficiently applied to numerous real life systems such as computer and communication systems, telecommunication networks, automobile, nuclear and defense systems etc., giving optimal/near‐optimal solutions.Originality/valueResearchers in reliability optimization have placed emphasis on heuristic approaches. The paper presents a new heuristic algorithm for solving the constrained redundancy optimization problems in complex binary systems.
The financial crisis: impact on key clothing markets and suppliers
Authors: Curran Louise , Zignago Soledad 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of the international financial crisis on key clothing markets and their suppliers.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis was undertaken on the basis of trade figures from the International Trade Centre (ITC) and Eurostat over the period 2005‐2009, and in particular over the period July 2007 to July 2009, when the strongest impacts from the crisis can be seen.FindingsThe different markets and suppliers have been impacted rather heterogeneously by the crisis. The key regional suppliers to the EU and the USA – Turkey and Mexico – have seen large falls in their clothing exports, as well as their textiles imports and exports. However, the EU has also seen major reductions in its trade. Others have been less strongly affected in the clothing sector. In textiles, trade fell in both directions everywhere, confirming a general tendency for intermediate product trade to be more affected by the crisis than final trade in goods. The research shows that certain sectors have been less strongly affected than others. However, the impacts have been heterogeneous across countries. The figures for the EU were extracted in euros, but also converted to dollars for comparison. The results vary quite considerably depending on the currency used for analysis.Originality/valueThe paper analyzes, for the first time, the most up to date trade data relating to flows over the period of the crisis. Through analysing the impacts of the economic downturn the potential impacts on the industrial landscape after the crisis can be better seen.
The competitive position of Thailand's apparel industry
Authors: Watchravesringkan Kittichai (Tu) , Karpova Elena , Nelson Hodges Nancy , Copeland Raedene 
Published: October 2010

PurposeRecent liberalization of the world's textile and apparel trade policies and the consequent changes in trade patterns posited threats to smaller textile‐ and apparel‐exporting nations, including Thailand. Thus it is important to understand how the new trade environment affects the competitiveness of Thailand's apparel industry. This study seeks to provide insights into how Thailand's apparel industry has responded to increasingly fierce global competition by drawing on Porter's theory of The Competitive Advantage of Nations.Design/methodology/approachTo assess the competitiveness of the Thai industry, the study triangulated data from various sources, including secondary statistics, media reports, and relevant industry publications. In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were also conducted, and participants included key executives from Thailand's apparel industry, government officials, and academics. The interviews were conducted at various locations in three Thai provinces: Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samutsakorn, over a two‐week period.FindingsFindings revealed the existence of four determinants supporting the Thai apparel industry: basic v. specialized factors; sophisticated and demanding consumer market; the presence of interdependent economic agents; and strategies and structure of Thai companies and domestic rivals. These four determinants are identical to the “diamonds” outlined in Porter's theory of The Competitive Advantage of Nations and a new source of competitiveness. Furthermore, the Thai government was found to play an important role, by providing support to enhance the global competitiveness of Thai companies.Originality/valueThe study is among the first to attempt to provide insights into the competitive national advantage of the Thai apparel industry. Based on the findings, the outlook is positive for the continued success of Thailand's apparel industry in the global arena.
Australian fashion designers: the potential nexus with China
Authors: Lindgren Tim , Sinclair Marta , Miller Dale 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore how Australian fashion designers perceive the impact and opportunities offered by the Chinese textile and clothing industry.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research design used personally administered, semi‐structured interviews. A purposeful sample used interviewees drawn from proactive fashion business owners. The sample covered four clothing categories. Thematic data analysis was used, and data integrity was assured, using well‐recognised techniques including triangulation and constant comparison.FindingsThe Queensland fashion designers are experiencing significant impacts from the current economic and manufacturing situations and the challenges presented by developments in China. They respond to their operational concerns, but do not deal strategically with contemporary challenges. They are unaware of opportunities that the Chinese textile and clothing industry offers, struggling with a global perspective. Although they are aware of issues with intellectual property, they have little experience in protecting their intangible assets.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research could link the proposed scenario building with interviews, to develop an even more robust research design. Extensions to other Asia Pacific countries could reveal common issues and any unique perspectives.Practical implicationsApplication of the proposed model and the pursuit of the scenarios for future development could assist fashion designers in the formation of a sense of community. A return to craftsmanship could nurture the local fashion design community, and create offshore links and relationships, facilitated by technology.Originality/valueThe empirical study proposes a new model, suggesting approaches and solutions, not previously considered in the context of fashion designers and their opportunities in doing business with China.
The effects of ethical framing on consumer price perceptions
Authors: Stanforth Nancy , Hauck William 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate one of the potential cues that may influence the price consumers are willing to pay for products. This paper seeks to investigate the use of ethically framed marketing efforts in influencing price perceptions among consumers of health and beauty productsDesign/methodology/approachThe exploratory online experiment was completed in two parts: the first with 84 participants and the second with 61 participants.FindingsResults show that consumers expect prices to be much higher when the product is produced under ethical conditions but they are willing to pay only slightly more for ethically produced products.Research limitations/implicationsThe participants were a convenience sample and thus the results are not generalizable. While being socially responsible is an end in itself, consumers may not allow the firms to increase prices to cover the increased costs of production. It is not apparent that consumers fully expect to share in the cost of a social responsible global economy.Originality/valueThe study offers insight into the difficulty firms have in producing products in an ethical manner and passing those costs to their customers. Considering the global financial conditions in 2008/2009, it may be even more difficult for firms to maintain ethical production methods.
Personal preferences of tween shoppers
Authors: Drake‐Bridges Erin , Burgess Brigitte 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to shed light on the behaviors of a group of consumers referred to as “tween”, a sub‐group of Generation Y, described as pre‐adolescents, aged 9 to 15, who are be“tween” the children and juniors markets, by taking previously tested measures and applying them to “tween” girls. The work of Blackwell et al. indicates that individual tastes and preferences are expected to have an effect on to whom tweens look for purchasing cues.Design/methodology/approachThe first section of the survey included demographic items consisting of tweens' age, grade level and race. Section two of the survey consisted of nine items used to determine the influence of two reference groups: parents and friends. Items adapted from the personal involvement index were used to measure the personal involvement of tweens in apparel purchases. Store patronage was measured by assessing the frequency with which participants patronized each of eight given retail settings.FindingsFuture research should replicate or adapt the study to a larger sample in order to determine the strength of the relationships, since the majority of the respondents were between the ages of 12 to 15, leaving younger tweens under‐represented.Originality/valueThe results reveal that tweens exhibit a high level of fashion interest and that fashion interest is the only variable in the study to have significant relationships with each of the other variables.
Global financial crisis: causes and perspectives
Authors: Iannuzzi Elio , Berardi Massimiliano 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThis study aims at examining the current global financial crisis, by emphasizing its main causes and perspectives to define the way they can be avoided in the future. The paper argues that there is a need for a new International Financial System with the function of coordinating and guiding the different national and supranational institutions.Design/methodology/approachThis article used complexity theory and viable system approach.FindingsThe findings suggest they are implicit features of these kinds of markets, due to their high uncertainty and hyper‐competitiveness, rather than temporary deviation from normal equilibrium. In this way, financial markets can be thought as Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS), which may precipitate in disorder and chaos because of a seemingly mild event, which activates latent forces and leads to emerging and unpredictable consequences. The orientation of international partners is to move towards a new international financial system, where the stabilization of financial system does not pass only through the bodies created in Bretton Woods, but through the endowment of new rules and new structures.Research limitations/implicationsThe research faces with evolutionary issues and it is impossible to know the total value of toxic derivatives still circulating in the world. Furthermore, the banks are still using the innovative finance to generate short‐term profits and shareholders' value.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest some measures to limit future instability and crises, and to reduce their negative consequences.Originality/valueThe paper provides a new methodology to examine the financial crises and the way to limit them.
Barriers to the development of environmental management accounting
Authors: Setthasakko Watchaneeporn 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to attempt to gain an understanding of the root causes of barriers to the development of environmental management accounting in organizations.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs semi‐structured interviews with key informants accompanied by site observations. Key informants include chief operating officers, environmental managers and accounting directors of three pulp and paper companies in Thailand.FindingsThe study identifies the root causes of the barriers: lack of building organizational learning, a narrow focus on economic performance and absence of guidance on environmental management accounting.Research limitations/implicationsAs an exploratory case study, findings cannot necessarily be extrapolated to broader populations. To improve the generalization of the findings, future research should broaden the sample. It would also be beneficial to pursue comparative research between industries, countries and regions.Practical implicationsDeveloping environmental management accounting requires increasing “green” knowledge and generating a wider conception of corporate responsibility throughout an organization. In addition, government agencies have to play a significant role in promoting environmental management accounting.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the influence of organizational learning mechanisms and the role of governments in developing environmental management accounting.
The approaches to learning of European accounting students
Authors: Luis Arquero Montaño José , María González González José , Hassall Trevor , Joyce John , Germanou Eleni , Asonitou Sophia 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to identify the impact of differing teaching contexts on the approaches to learning of accounting undergraduates in different European countries by the use of a study process questionnaire.Design/methodology/approachThe questionnaire used was Biggs’ R‐SPQ‐2F (Biggs et al.). This is a 20‐item questionnaire that identifies the learning styles of individual students in terms of deep and surface approaches.FindingsSignificant differences were found in the approaches to learning of the students in the countries concerned. The differences were rooted in two subcomponents: motive and strategy. Gender differences were also identified.Originality/valueA major factor in the development process of future accountants is the education process that they undertake. This study identifies a methodology that is capable of comparing accounting students in different countries and potentially identifying the underlying reasons why the quality of the learning outcomes achieved may differ under differing educational systems.
Downside risk optimization in securitized real estate markets
Authors: Kroencke Tim‐Alexander , Schindler Felix 
Published: October 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare the risk and return characteristics as well as the allocation of mean‐variance (MV) and downside risk (DR) optimized portfolios of international real estate stock markets and to discuss implications for portfolio management.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis focuses on real estate markets only and examines the appropriateness of the Markowitz approach based on MV optimization in comparison to the DR framework suggested by Estrada. Therefore, the two frameworks are presented before the properties of the return distributions are analyzed. Afterwards, the risk and return characteristics as well as the allocation of the efficient portfolios in both frameworks and the divergences are analyzed.FindingsBecause of non‐normally distributed returns, negative skewness, and probably non‐quadratic utility functions of investors, MV optimization is not appropriate and the alternative approach by Estrada has its merit compared with other DR frameworks. Furthermore, MV‐efficient and DR‐efficient portfolio allocation differ, as shown by a similarity index. Summarizing, MV optimization is inherent with misleading results and DR optimization shows stronger out‐of‐sample performance – at least during time periods characterized by high market volatility and financial market turmoil.Originality/valueThis study provides some interesting and valuable insights into the DR of international securitized real estate portfolios and the limitations for portfolio management based on MV optimization.