bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Afghanistan – the “great game” without end?
Authors: Gilbert Peter 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this viewpoint is to provide a perspective on political and military leadership in a current geo‐political situation, with some reflections on how this relates to other public services.Design/methodology/approachThis paper makes use of historical and political sources in order to reflect on current aspects of leadership in public services.FindingsThroughout history, Afghanistan has often played a pivotal role between the superpowers of any particular era. In the ancient world, the Greeks of Alexander the Great's Macedonian hegemony: Persians; Mongols under Genghis Khan and his successors; and a host of other groups have vied for control, often leaving ethnic traces within a complex tribal and ethnic makeup in modern Afghanistan. In the nineteenth century it was part of the “Great Game” between Great Britain and Russia; in the twentieth and twenty‐first centuries, there have been both Soviet and NATO incursions; and now, Afghanistan retains a pivotal role between India and Pakistan, China, Iran and former Soviet Republics. NATO is engaged in a task of “declared nation building”, and also to ostensibly make the streets of Western cities safe. But is this not just a “great game” but a “grand illusion”? Afghanistan has often been internally divided, but has never welcomed foreign domination, an experience which tends to bring Afghans together against the invader. Foreign troops, however well intentioned, propping up an unpopular central government, usually leads to resentment and the opposite of what was intended.Originality/valueThis paper links a number of perspectives to assist in the understanding of how and when strategies follow the wrong path.
Education spillovers: empirical evidence in rural India
Authors: Gille Véronique 
Published: April 2012

PurposeEmpirical evidence of education spillovers in developing countries and rural contexts is scarce and focuses on specific channels. The purpose of this paper is to provide evidence of such spillovers in rural India, by evaluating the overall impact of neighbours' education on farm productivity.Design/methodology/approachThe author uses cross‐sectional data from the India Human Development Survey of 2005. Spatial econometric tools are used to take into account social distance between neighbours. To be sure that the author's definition of a neighbourhood does not drive the results, three different definitions of neighbours were tested.FindingsThe results show that education spillovers are substantial: one additional year in the mean level of education of neighbours increases households' farm productivity by 2 per cent. These findings are robust to changes in specification.Research limitations/implicationsThe results open the way to further research. In particular, this paper does not explore the channels through which this spillover effect happens.Practical implicationsThis paper confirms the choice of improving education in developing countries: giving a child education will certainly provide him/her with greater revenues and it may also provide his/her neighbours with greater revenues. The paper shows the importance for policy makers of taking into account education spillovers and policies' complementarity when facing political trade‐offs.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the few to underline that education externalities do not only exist in urban contexts and education spillovers do not only occur between workers of the manufacturing and service sectors. There are also spillovers in sectors considered as more traditional, such as agriculture.
A time‐varying parameter model of inflation in India
Authors: Kumar Sudhanshu , Srinivasan Naveen , Ramachandran Muthiah 
Published: April 2012

PurposeIn the past two decades, there has been a remarkable decline in inflation in both developed and developing countries, in sharp contrast to the period immediately preceding it. Interestingly, the behaviour of inflation in India broadly exhibits such a pattern. For much of the 1970s and 1980s, India experienced recurrent bouts of high inflation together with sub‐par economic performance. Since the 1990s the inflation record has been far better. The purpose of this paper is to answer an important question about what ultimately brought on this improved economic outcome.Design/methodology/approachA time‐varying parameter model for inflation is proposed which nests all the plausible explanations. The time variation in parameters is modelled as driftless random walks, and is estimated using the median unbiased estimator. The median unbiased estimate helps in addressing the pile‐up problem, which arise if variances of the state specification are small. In such cases the maximum likelihood estimates are biased towards zero. Kalman Filter algorithm is used to obtain the time path of the parameters of the reduced form equation.FindingsThe estimated time paths of the reaction function coefficients suggest gradual changes in the rule coefficients. It has been found that while better monetary policy and structural change have played a non‐trivial role, good luck and exchange rate regime have played a major role in the moderation of inflation in the 1990s. This interpretation suggests that to prevent a resurgence of 1970s‐style inflation, the central bank should reinforce as much as possible its commitment to low inflation by institutional, operational, and rhetorical means. Otherwise, sooner or later, luck will dry out and high inflation could return.Originality/valueA time‐varying parameter model for inflation in India is proposed which nests the various plausible explanations for moderate inflation in the recent decade. Most empirical and theoretical studies on inflation dynamics have concentrated on developed economies. This paper pays attention to the international dimension of the issue. The reduced form model is estimated using time‐varying parameter estimation technique.
Deciphering the Hindu growth epic
Authors: Robertson Peter E. 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a quantitative assessment of the factors contributing to India's growth acceleration since 1970, based on the neoclassical growth model.Design/methodology/approachA feature of neoclassical growth models is that capital accumulation is induced by both productivity growth and increases in investment rates. The paper uses a growth decomposition method based on that of Robertson. The method reconstructs India's actual growth path exactly, then decomposes the growth using counterfactual simulations, holding investment rates constant and productivity growth constant. The role of human capital is also discussed.FindingsAn increase in the productivity growth rate from 1970 accounts for 68per cent of India's post 1970s growth and the rise in the investment rate accounts for 30 per cent. Hence an upward trend in productivity growth has been more than twice as important as the doubling of the investment rate. A similar conclusion applies for the post 2000 era, where a rise in investment from 25 per cent to 37 per cent of GDP, only adds about 0.7 percentage points of growth to the 4.5 per cent annual growth rate over this period.Originality/valueThe paper provides quantitative estimates of the role of investment and productivity to India's growth based on the neoclassical growth model. It thus improves upon existing growth accounting studies by allowing for the induced effect of productivity growth on capital accumulation. It also improves upon existing development accounting techniques that rely on steady state restrictions, and which would therefore be inappropriate for evaluating India's recent transitional growth.
Monetary policy in an uncertain world: probability models and the design of robust monetary rules
Authors: Levine Paul 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the transformation of macro‐modelling from reduced form behavioural equations estimated separately, through to contemporary microfounded dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models estimated by systems methods. It is argued that estimated DSGE models should be seen as probability models that can be used as a laboratory for assessing new policies in a new and uncertain environment. The methodology is particularly relevant for emerging economies such as India.Design/methodology/approachThis paper has analytical, empirical and policy dimensions. Estimating DSGE models by Bayesian‐Maximum‐Likelihood methods results in a posterior distribution of parameters that quantifies the uncertainty facing the policymaker. This, in turn, can be used for robust policy design.FindingsThe paper reviews evidence that inflation targeting in emerging economies welfare‐dominates exchange rate targeting.Originality/valueThis lies in the papers reviewed including those involving the author.
The role of capital‐labour substitution in economic growth
Authors: Mallick Debdulal 
Published: April 2012

PurposeAlthough the importance of the elasticity of substitution between capital and labour (σ) has been recognized in many areas in economics, this parameter has not received enough attention in economic growth. The purpose of this paper is to review the recent development in the importance of σ in economic growth.Design/methodology/approachThis paper specifically reviews the possibility of perpetual growth and slowdown, and the asymptotic behaviour of the balanced growth path for different values of σ. It also reviews the determinants of the aggregate σ.FindingsBased on the empirical evidence that the value of σ significantly departs from the Cobb‐Douglas value of unity, the paper recommends employing the constant elasticity of substitution (CES) production function in both theoretical and empirical growth research.Originality/valueThis paper offers a new perspective on the elasticity of substitution between capital and labour due to its evaluation of various factors, methods and approaches.
Examining the temporal relationship between methamphetamine use and mental health comorbidity
Authors: Lee Nicole K. , Harney Angela M. , Pennay Amy E. 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to examine the temporal sequencing of methamphetamine use and the onset of mental health problems among a sample of dependent methamphetamine users.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a self‐reported timeline method to examine the sequencing of first use, regular use and problematic use of methamphetamine and mental health issues among 126 users with lifetime dependence.FindingsThe majority of the sample (69 per cent) reported previous mental health diagnosis or treatment. Of this sample, 22 per cent reported mental health problems prior to their first use of methamphetamine and 72 per cent reported mental health problems after first use of methamphetamine (with the rest around the same time or unsure). On the timeline, mental health symptoms were first indicated around a year after first regular use of methamphetamine and around the same time as problematic use. Respondents identified a lag time of five years between first problematic use of methamphetamine and seeking treatment for methamphetamine‐related problems, but those that received mental health treatment engaged in methamphetamine treatment earlier.Practical implicationsAmong this sample, mental health problems coincided with problematic methamphetamine use (rather than any use) suggesting prevention efforts may be better directed at preventing transition to heavy use or use of potent forms or injecting, rather than directed at prevention of uptake. On this basis, stepped care might be appropriate for methamphetamine users.Originality/valueDespite a substantial research literature establishing the link between methamphetamine use and mental health problems, little is known about the order of onset and the implications of this for treatment. This is one of the few studies specifically investigating the temporal sequencing of methamphetamine use, mental health symptoms and treatment seeking among a sample of dependent methamphetamine users.
Assessment of Deaf dually diagnosed clients
Authors: Walls Rebecca , Hamilton Ian 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThis article seeks to explore the assessment issues for Deaf people who have a co‐occurring mental health and substance use problem.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on the expertise of a clinician who works with this client group, also using the available literature on this topic.FindingsDual diagnosis for Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users has not been well researched. Deaf people may be unable to access some forms of assessment/treatment due to compromised cognition, understanding of concepts, and material not being accessible in an appropriate format. This paper discusses an approach which may be of particular use to assessing this minority group.Originality/valueThis paper considers an approach which may be of particular use to assessing this minority group. Although current techniques can be adapted such as cognitive‐behavioural integrated treatment (C‐BIT), there is a need for further research to evaluate and develop appropriate screening and assessment instruments for this client group.
A critique on accounting for the mudarabah contract
Authors: Atmeh Muhannad A. , Hadi Ramadan Abdul 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the accounting treatment for mudarabah contract and its implications on the reliability and fairness of the financial statements. In addition, the paper also aims to explore the effect of provisions and reserves on profit allocation among unrestricted investment account holders (UIAHS).Design/methodology/approachThis study reviews the accounting treatment for mudarabah contract as stated in the Accounting Standards for Islamic Financial Institutions issued by the AAOIFI and compares it with other financial reporting frameworks, especially the IFRS.FindingsThe paper finds that presenting UIAHS in a separate category in the financial position statement (balance sheet), without reclassifying the assets in the financial position statement to reflect the assets attributable to UIAHS, suggests undue bias in the financial statements. This contradicts the concepts of full disclosure and true and fair view of the financial statements. The paper also reveals that reserves may result in profit misallocation among UIAHS. Additionally, there is an overlap between provisions and reserves, which may affect the reliability and fairness of the financial statements. It is also revealed that reserves presented under the UIAHS section could not be readily understandable since investors have no right to these reserves. The paper further finds that using a donation contract in business may result in diverting wealth from the less wealthy to the wealthier.Originality/valueThe paper criticizes the AAOIFI treatment for UIAHS and suggests an extension to this treatment by presenting assets attributable to UIAHS in order to enhance disclosure. Additionally, it questions the applicability of using donation (Tabarru) contract in transactions with profit‐making substance.
Disclosure of Shariah compliance by Malaysian takaful companies
Authors: Aziah Abu Kasim Nor 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThis paper seeks to explore the disclosure of Shariah compliance as reported by the Shariah Committee (SC) in the annual reports of takaful companies in Malaysia. Disclosure of Shariah compliance is important in enhancing and protecting the Islamic identity of takaful operators, thereby providing Muslims with an alternative insurance system. The paper also aims to discuss whether the advisory role constrains the SC members to improve disclosure which can boost consumers' confidence and companies' accountability. Both confidence and accountability on Shariah compliance would also help promote Malaysia as an Islamic financial centre.Design/methodology/approachContent analysis of the SCs' reports in the 2008/2009 annual reports of seven takaful operators in Malaysia were conducted and the findings discussed with three officers from Bank Negara Malaysia (Central Bank of Malaysia). Subsequent to the discussion, the findings were further clarified and confirmed with a former member of the SC through e‐mail correspondence.FindingsDisclosure of Shariah compliance by the SC reflects high conformance to the Bank Negara Malaysia guidelines. Although the high level of conformance promotes comparability, it does not necessarily fully address disclosure issues such as providing adequate and relevant information. Shariah compliance by takaful companies seems to develop in much the same manner as other disclosure practices, that is, a tendency to comply with rules rather than with principles. Related to the disclosure issue, SC members are constrained by the advisory role and part‐time basis of appointment from fully participating in every stage of product process from its conception to its implementation.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper relies heavily on Shariah compliance reported by the SC in the annual reports of takaful companies. Nonetheless, findings were confirmed with three officers from Bank Negara Malaysia and with a former member of the SC to enhance the findings' credibility. In future, interviews can be conducted with other stakeholders such as takaful managers, Islamic academics and members of the SC to better understand the nature of disclosure practices by takaful companies.Practical implicationsInsights drawn from this study suggest the need to enhance disclosure on Shariah compliance in the SC reports and to further strengthen the role of the SC members. As Shariah governance mechanisms, both the SC reports and SC members can be utilised to enhance the identity of Islamic businesses and fulfils the religious obligations.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the need for increased transparency through adequate and relevant disclosure of Shariah compliance information in the SC report of takaful companies. It also raises the concern that the advisory role entrusted to SC members might not be adequate for them to effectively ensure that compliance with Shariah principles are adhered to at all times as expected by Bank Negara Malaysia.
Viewpoints: when the Islamisation model doesn't work
Authors: Ul‐Haq Razwan 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to encourage debate around the issues of the bank and Islamisation.Design/methodology/approachThe work is an ideological examination of approaches to Islamisation and includes references to thinkers from Muslim history.FindingsThe Islamisation model is not wholly appropriate in the banking sector.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the limitations of the Islamisation approach and puts forward the case for another methodology, Namely the model of Islamication.Social implicationsThe impact of the author's recommendations, if followed would revolutionise the way banking is carried out.Originality/valueThe conceptualization of Islamication with regard to banking has not yet been academically formulated. This paper provides a platform to do this. Although Muslim societies and Muslims living in the West will be interested in the paper, non Muslim scholars Europe too, faced with a banking crisis may welcome some of the report's recommendations.
Undocumented immigration and the business of farm labor contracting in the USA
Authors: Alves Pena Anita 
Published: April 2012

PurposeFarm labor contractors operate as intermediaries between farmworkers and agricultural employers by recruiting and supplying labor to US farms. In a political economy where there are employer sanctions for hiring workers without proper documentation, contractors share risk alongside final employers. Furthermore, contractors may facilitate quick employment matches during time sensitive agricultural tasks such as harvesting. For undocumented workers, using a contractor may decrease uncertainty associated with a foreign labor market and ease language barriers. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current role of labor contractors in delivering immigrant agricultural workers, particularly undocumented workers, to farms.Design/methodology/approachDeterminants of labor contractor use and relationships to final worker outcomes are examined using econometric methods and a large nationally‐representative worker survey that is distinctive in that it distinguishes legal status.FindingsUndocumented farmworkers are shown to be more likely to use contractors than are documented workers, though statistical significance is sensitive to the inclusion of crop and task indicators, and wages and fringe compensation to workers who use contractors are lower, even after controlling for legal status.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper contributes to limited recent academic work on the role of labor contractors in US agriculture. Future work may examine ongoing changes to this role in the context of mutable immigration policy and public opinion.Practical implicationsIt is argued that the decline in labor contracting increases the need for employer‐level bilingual communication skills and compliance with labor regulations.Originality/valueUnderstanding current dynamics of the agricultural labor market should be of value to scholars of rural economies, farm owners and agricultural policymakers.
The webnovela and immigrants in the United States
Authors: López‐Pumarejo Tomás A. 
Published: April 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to focus on the webnovela, a new type of marketing genre and sentimental serial drama which is popular among immigrants, pivotal to the future of the US Spanish‐language media and informative about its past. No academic research currently exists on this topic.Design/methodology/approachThis paper applies cultural studies, management, new media and marketing theory to the study of the first three webnovelas launched from 2006 to 2011. It analyzes how this new genre fits into the history of sentimental serial drama; how it appeals to Hispanics and to immigrants at their home countries and at their host country as well; and how the US Spanish‐language television and new media address their $900 billion Hispanic consumer market.FindingsThis study revealed that although webnovelas are likely to continue being popular as romantic fiction for the new media and profitable as a marketing system, they are unlikely – as operationally defined by this analysis – to be produced independently from the Univision media group in the foreseeable future, even when the entry barriers for competitors are low.Originality/valueThis paper should be of value to those interested in the latest developments in ethnic marketing, narrative theory, interactive marketing, and international business and communications.