bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Knowledge transfer between Australia and China
Authors: Courtney Lyn , Anderson Neil 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to address the mechanisms of, and barriers to, knowledge transfer between Australia and China in the tertiary sector.Design/methodology/approachIndividual focused interviews are conducted with one Chinese and ten Australian senior academics engaged in supervisory roles at all levels of knowledge transfer. Content and sociolinguistics analysis is conducted on the questions: How is knowledge transferred between key academic/research staff? What is the potential for commercialization of research findings between Australia and China? What role does information and communication technology (ICT) play in knowledge transfer?FindingsKnowledge transfer between Chinese and Australian universities consists of research partnerships, collective publications, and joint degree programs. One‐way transfer of knowledge from Australia to China, rather than the desired reciprocal transfer of knowledge, appears to be most common. Barriers to bi‐directional knowledge sharing include misunderstandings surround intellectual property and cultural differences, which undermine trust between China and Australia. The participants overwhelmingly hold optimistic views about the potential of commercialization of research findings between China and Australia and report that ICT enhances communications assisted in successful knowledge transfer. However, ICT is reported to be under‐utilized because of unequal access to hardware and broadband in China as well as blocking and censorship of communication by China.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the discourse on international, intercultural and bi‐directional knowledge transfer in the tertiary sector and has implications for enhanced academic and research excellence between China and Australia. Moreover, insight into the mechanisms of successful knowledge transfer may be applicable to improve knowledge transfer between Australia and other countries.
Ethics in the construction industry: the prospects for a single professional code
Authors: Mason Jim 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to consider the potential for generating improved levels of ethical conduct within the construction industry through the introduction of a single industry‐wide professional code.Design/methodology/approachThe Society of Construction Law's Statement of Ethical Principles (the Code) is used as a model. The paper consists of a detailed critical analysis of the Code which it places within the context of previous studies, internationally, on the role of unethical conduct within the industry, and of the role that criminal sanctions can play in addressing this.FindingsThe paper concludes that a single industry‐wide code has a contribution to make in improving the ethical standards of conduct within the industry. However, ethical improvement can ultimately only be delivered by reducing the numbers of situations where industry participants consider it necessary to seek an advantage at someone else's expense. Other measures – in particular an increase in the incidence of longer term relationships and collaborative working – are also likely to play an equally important role.Originality/valueThe paper provides a new interpretation of existing sources on business and professional ethics and offers new insights into the topic area by emphasising its relationship with collaborative working.
Novel ant colony optimization approach to optimal control
Authors: Marinus van Ast Jelmer , Babuška Robert , De Schutter Bart 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose a novel ant colony optimization (ACO) approach to optimal control. The standard ACO algorithms have proven to be very powerful optimization metaheuristic for combinatorial optimization problems. They have been demonstrated to work well when applied to various nondeterministic polynomial‐complete problems, such as the travelling salesman problem. In this paper, ACO is reformulated as a model‐free learning algorithm and its properties are discussed.Design/methodology/approachFirst, it is described how quantizing the state space of a dynamic system introduces stochasticity in the state transitions and transforms the optimal control problem into a stochastic combinatorial optimization problem, motivating the ACO approach. The algorithm is presented and is applied to the time‐optimal swing‐up and stabilization of an underactuated pendulum. In particular, the effect of different numbers of ants on the performance of the algorithm is studied.FindingsThe simulations show that the algorithm finds good control policies reasonably fast. An increasing number of ants results in increasingly better policies. The simulations also show that although the policy converges, the ants keep on exploring the state space thereby capable of adapting to variations in the system dynamics.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper introduces a novel ACO approach to optimal control and as such marks the starting point for more research of its properties. In particular, quantization issues must be studied in relation to the performance of the algorithm.Originality/valueThe paper presented is original as it presents the first application of ACO to optimal control problems.
3D large grid route planner for the autonomous underwater vehicles
Authors: Cao Hua , Brener Nathan E. , Sitharama Iyengar S. 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a 3D route planner, called 3DPLAN, which employs the Fast‐Pass A* algorithm to find optimum paths in the large grid.Design/methodology/approachThe Fast‐Pass A* algorithm, an improved best‐first search A* algorithm, has a major advantage compared to other search methods because it is guaranteed to give the optimum path.FindingsIn spite of this significant advantage, no one has previously used A* in 3D searches. Most researchers think that the computational cost of using A* for 3D route planning would be prohibitive. This paper shows that it is quite feasible to use A* for 3D searches if one employs the new mobility and threat heuristics that have been developed.Practical implicationsThis paper reviews the modification of the previous 3DPLAN in the ocean dynamical environment. The test mobility map is replaced with more realistic mobility map that consists of travel times of each grid point to each of its 26 neighbors using the actual current velocity data from the Navy Coastal Ocean Model – East Asian Seas version. Numerical comparison between the A* and genetic algorithms (GA) shows that the A* algorithm has significantly faster running time than GA.Originality/valueThese new heuristics substantially speed up the A* algorithm so that the run times are quite reasonable for the large grids that are typical of 3D searches.
New dimensions in non‐classical neural computing, part II: quantum, nano, and optical
Authors: Al‐Rabadi Anas N. 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce new non‐classical implementations of neural networks (NNs). The developed implementations are performed in the quantum, nano, and optical domains to perform the required neural computing. The various implementations of the new NNs utilizing the introduced architectures are presented, and their extensions for the utilization in the non‐classical neural‐systolic networks are also introduced.Design/methodology/approachThe introduced neural circuits utilize recent findings in the quantum, nano, and optical fields to implement the functionality of the basic NN. This includes the techniques of many‐valued quantum computing (MVQC), carbon nanotubes (CNT), and linear optics. The extensions of implementations to non‐classical neural‐systolic networks using the introduced neural‐systolic architectures are also presented.FindingsNovel NN implementations are introduced in this paper. NN implementation using the general scheme of MVQC is presented. The proposed method uses the many‐valued quantum orthonormal computational basis states to implement such computations. Physical implementation of quantum computing (QC) is performed by controlling the potential to yield specific wavefunction as a result of solving the Schrödinger equation that governs the dynamics in the quantum domain. The CNT‐based implementation of logic NNs is also introduced. New implementations of logic NNs are also introduced that utilize new linear optical circuits which use coherent light beams to perform the functionality of the basic logic multiplexer by utilizing the properties of frequency, polarization, and incident angle. The implementations of non‐classical neural‐systolic networks using the introduced quantum, nano, and optical neural architectures are also presented.Originality/valueThe introduced NN implementations form new important directions in the NN realizations using the newly emerging technologies. Since the new quantum and optical implementations have the advantages of very high‐speed and low‐power consumption, and the nano implementation exists in very compact space where CNT‐based field effect transistor switches reliably using much less power than a silicon‐based device, the introduced implementations for non‐classical neural computation are new and interesting for the design in future technologies that require the optimal design specifications of super‐high speed, minimum power consumption, and minimum size, such as in low‐power control of autonomous robots, adiabatic low‐power very‐large‐scale integration circuit design for signal processing applications, QC, and nanotechnology.
Stochastic behavior analysis of the press unit in a paper mill using GABLT technique
Authors: Komal  , Sharma S.P. , Kumar Dinesh 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a hybridized technique for analyzing the behavior of an industrial system stochastically utilizing vague, imprecise, and uncertain data. The press unit of a paper mill situated in a northern part of India, producing 200 tons of paper per day, has been considered to demonstrate the proposed approach. Sensitivity analysis of system's behavior has also been done.Design/methodology/approachIn the proposed approach, two important tools namely traditional Lambda‐Tau technique and genetic algorithm have been hybridized to build genetic algorithms‐based Lambda‐Tau (GABLT) technique to analyze the behavior of complex repairable industrial systems stochastically up to a desired degree of accuracy. This technique has been demonstrated by computing six well‐known reliability indices used for behavior analysis of the considered system in more promising way.FindingsThe behavior analysis results computed by GABLT technique have reduced region of prediction in comparison of existing Lambda‐Tau technique region, i.e. uncertainties involved in the analysis are reduced. Thus, it may be a more useful analysis tool to assess the current system conditions and involved uncertainties. The paper suggested an approach to improve the system's performance.Originality/valueThe paper suggests a hybridized technique for analyzing the stochastic behavior of an industrial subsystem by computing six well‐known reliability indices in the form of fuzzy membership function.
Informal entrepreneurs and their motives: a gender perspective
Authors: Williams Colin C. 
Published: October 2009

PurposeIt is now widely recognised that in most economies there is a large number of hidden entrepreneurs operating wholly or partially “off‐the‐books”. Until now, however, there has been a degree of silence on the gendering of such entrepreneurship, including exploring whether men and women have different motives for participating in hidden/informal entrepreneurship. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to begin to fill this gap in the knowledge.Design/methodology/approachThe findings of face‐to‐face structured interviews with 130 informal entrepreneurs in England are reported; 70 are early‐stage entrepreneurs and 60 are established business owner‐managers, living in a range of affluent and deprived urban and rural English localities.FindingsA key finding of the paper is that three‐quarters of entrepreneurs operate in the informal economy, with women informal entrepreneurs chiefly necessity‐driven and men being largely voluntary participants in informal entrepreneurship. Further unpacking their motives, however, reveals not only that both necessity and choice are co‐present motives for most informal entrepreneurs, but also that their motives change over time, with many women who originally entered informal entrepreneurship out of necessity becoming more opportunity‐driven.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough this survey is conducted in a diverse range of English localities to avoid the pitfall of generalizing from a specific locality‐type, it does not provide nationally representative data on informal entrepreneurship.Originality/valueThis is one of the first studies attempting to investigate why men and women engage in informal entrepreneurship.
The influence of economic rationalism upon policy development
Authors: Gates Donald K. , Steane Peter 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how economic rationalism in policy development affects incomes and social cohesion within the communities in which businesses operate. Inequality of income occurs in most, if not all, countries. Historically, economic statisticians established various means of measuring levels of inequality within a country. Measuring inequality between countries, however, is a complex procedure because of differences in money exchange rates and standards of living. Poverty exists in most countries but it is particularly extreme in the Asia‐Pacific Region and in Africa. Economic rationalistic policies that depend on the supremacy of the market are developed mostly without regard for their impact upon income share, fairness and social justice concerns. Some other economic rationalistic policy outcomes are detrimental to social cohesion within communities.Design/methodology/approachThis paper draws upon earlier research undertaken by the author as well as upon published works of other researchers.FindingsThe analysis of this paper indicates that there are great income inequalities not only within nations but also between nations in the Asia‐Pacific Region.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited by the ability to examine all the research literature in the field in greater depth. However, the examination that has been possible indicates that where economic rationalism has a significant input in policymaking wide disparities in the distribution of incomes become apparent.Practical implicationsThis paper provides government and corporate executives with an understanding that the policies they develop could advantage one section of the community over another. This could have a detrimental affect on the social cohesion of the communities they administer or in which their businesses operate.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified need and supports policymakers seeking to achieve just outcomes in the communities in which they operate.
Perceptions of export credit insurance value: Australian evidence
Authors: Zammit Benjamin , Ross Donald G. , Wood Dorothy 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine Australian exporter perceptions of export credit insurance (ECI) value and ECI value drivers to help uncover how Australian (and other) exporters can optimize their ECI use.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses a 1,000 firm survey of how Australian ECI users and non‐users perceive the value of often‐cited attributes of ECI and multiple regression analysis to create a model of ECI value drivers.FindingsMost ECI value is derived from the increased trade exporters can manage with ECI protection and from improved access to trade finance. Clear differences are observable in perceived ECI value between larger and smaller exporters as well as between ECI users and non‐users.Originality/valueThis paper provides the first evidence of perceived ECI value to Australian exporters as well as differences between ECI users and non‐users. Export credit insurers and export support agencies need to focus on these differences to ensure that ECI is being optimally marketed and used by Australian exporters.
Vision‐based leadership: relationships and consequences in Thai and Australian retail stores
Authors: Kantabutra Sooksan , Vimolratana Pisanu 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine relationships between vision‐based leadership components, and customer and staff satisfaction in Thai and Australian retail stores.Design/methodology/approachTwo models are derived from the literature. The first model expressing relationships among vision, store manager passion and staff vision sharing and staff and customer satisfaction is tested in Thai retail stores. The second model expressing relationships among vision attributes, motivation of staff and store manager passion, staff vision guiding and staff and customer satisfaction is tested in Australian retail stores. Regression analyses are adopted.FindingsStore visions characterize by brevity, clarity, future orientation, stability, challenge, abstractness and ability to inspire and containing references to sales, customer, employee and leadership indirectly predict improved customer satisfaction in Thai retail stores. In Australian retail stores, visions with the same characteristics as well as staff using vision to guide their store operations directly predict improved customer satisfaction. Vision effects on staff satisfaction are negative. Store manager passion for vision and staff vision sharing indirectly predict improvements in both staff and customer satisfaction in Thai retail stores. In Australian retail stores, store manager visions with the seven attributes, motivation of staff, store manager passion for vision and staff using vision as a guide for their store operations directly predict staff satisfaction. Staff satisfaction also indirectly predicts improved customer satisfaction in both Thai and Australian studies.Practical implicationsThai and Australian store managers should develop a vision characterized by the seven attributes. Thai and Australian store managers should be passionate about their visions, support their visions by actions and act consistently with their visions.Originality/valueWhile vision is core to vision‐based leadership theories, little is known about what characterizes an effective vision. Moreover, roles of follower use of vision in improving performance have been little investigated. The present paper contributes to these areas.
Corporate liquidity management of listed firms in Ghana
Authors: Isshaq Zangina , Alufar Bokpin Godfred 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine corporate liquidity management of companies listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) with the aim of ascertaining the determinants of corporate liquidity holdings.Design/methodology/approachThe paper adopts a dynamic panel model where a lagged dependable variable is introduced as an explanatory variable. Annual data from the annual reports and financial statements of the firms together with the GSE Factbook are used in the gathering of data spanning 1991‐2007. The Arrellano‐Bond estimator is used which incorporates the Sargan test for over identification.FindingsLeverage is found to be not significant to Ghanaian‐listed firms' liquidity demand perhaps due to the developmental stage of the financial market. However, liquidity is found to be statistically significantly influenced by a target liquidity level, size of the firm, return on assets and net working capital.Originality/valueThis is the first of its kind in the country despite the numerous studies carried out on the GSE.
Does corporate disclosure policy change financial analysts' behaviour? Evidence from France
Authors: Lakhal Faten 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine whether financial analysts are sensitive to voluntary earning disclosures.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a literature review of the relationship between analysts' behaviour and corporate disclosures. It is assumed first that analyst coverage both influences and is influenced by voluntary earning disclosures, and that second, French managers are expected to make voluntary disclosures in order to reduce market uncertainty. To test these hypotheses, a simultaneous equation model and an ordinary least square regression framework were estimated on a sample of 154 French‐listed firms between 1998 and 2001.FindingsThe results show that voluntary earning disclosures positively influence analyst coverage decision. They also show that voluntary disclosures improve the accuracy of analyst forecasts and reduce market uncertainty.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper does not cover all forms of corporate voluntary disclosures.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that corporate disclosure policy is likely to change financial analysts' behaviour. The results are useful to both managers, wishing to meet market expectations and, to investors wishing to invest in richer informational environment firms.Originality/valueThis paper provides original results about the role of analysts in France as information intermediaries. These analysts pay little attention to French firms with a poor information environment in which minority shareholders are less inclined to ask for costly analyst coverage.
Rationality, institutionalism and accounting change
Authors: James Wendy 
Published: October 2009

PurposeThe primary purpose of this paper is to put forward a framework grounded in new institutional sociology (NIS) theory that examines the impact of national competition policy on the design and implementation of a balanced scorecard (BSC) in a government‐owned electricity corporation in Australia. It examines the importance of the rational analytical deliberation of legitimacy as a fundamental accompaniment to isomorphism in the continuing development of the new performance management system.Design/methodology/approachA single exploratory/descriptive case study with embedded multiple unit analysis is used in order to examine the adoption of a BSC as an example of the process of evolution of a new initiative. It uses DiMaggio and Powell's concept of isomorphism to explain the initial adoption of the BSC.FindingsThe paper highlights the importance of the deliberation of both rational analytical approaches and legitimacy as a fundamental accompaniment to isomorphism in the continuing development of accounting systems in the public sector.Originality/valueThese results provide useful insights into the criticism of NIS theory, that is, that it does not provide scope for organisations to adopt rationally technical practices as well as isomorphic behaviour for legitimacy.