bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the dynamics of poverty and income inequality in US states
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Dincer Oguzhan , Payne James E. 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis study seeks to provide answers to the following questions: Is there a relationship between poverty and income inequality in the short run/long run? Is the relationship unidirectional from income inequality to poverty as the previous studies assume, or is it bidirectional?Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates the causality between income inequality and poverty within a multivariate framework using a panel data set of 50 US states over the period 1980 to 2004.FindingsThe results reveal that a bidirectional relationship exists between poverty and income inequality both in the short run and in the long run. With respect to the short‐run dynamics associated with poverty, both income inequality and the unemployment rate have a positive and statistically significant impact on poverty, a negative and statistically significant impact for real per capita personal income and level of education, while corruption is insignificant. In terms of the short‐run dynamics associated with income inequality, poverty, the unemployment rate, real per capita personal income, and the level of education have a positive and statistically significant impact, while corruption has a statistically insignificant impact on income inequality. With regard to the long‐run dynamics, the statistically significant error correction terms indicate the presence of a feedback relationship between poverty and income inequality.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the existing empirical literature on several fronts. First, while previous studies rely on cross‐country data, both the cross‐sectional and time series variation of a panel data set of all 50 US states spanning the period 1980 to 2004 is exploited. Second, while the previous studies implicitly assume unidirectional causality from income inequality and poverty in their model specifications, the short‐run and long‐run causal dynamics between poverty and income inequality within a panel vector error correction model are explicitly examined.
Monetary policy inertia: case of Jordan
Authors: Sweidan Osama D. 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the inertia of monetary policy in the Jordanian economy, in which the monetary policy is neutral owing to the adoption of a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar. The question of the current paper is: Does monetary policy inertia exist in such an economy despite the fact that the exchange rate is pegged to a foreign currency?Design/methodology/approachTo test the hypothesis of the current paper in Jordan, the Taylor rule, adjusted to be consistent with the context of monetary policy in Jordan, is estimated. Moreover, the model is estimated by two techniques: OLS and the Kalman filter, using quarterly data over the period (1994:1‐2007:1).FindingsThe empirical evidence from the Jordanian economy shows that monetary policy inertia is highly significant in Jordan. The coefficient of the lagged interest rate is estimated to lie between 0.60 and 0.69. Moreover, the evidence illustrates that both inflation rate and output gap have an insignificant effect on setting the policy rate. Further, the policy interest rate seems to be set gradually in reaction to monetary policy inertia, unobserved variable and foreign interest rate.Originality/valueThe paper investigates monetary policy inertia in a developing country whose economy is small, widely open and has a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar.
Can imports mitigate racial earnings inequality?
Authors: Agesa Jacqueline , Agesa Richard U. , Lopes Carlos 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extend recent literature regarding the effects of competition on racial earnings by examining the effects of global competition on racial wages of union and non‐union workers of different skill levels. Additionally, it is intended that inference be drawn regarding whether global competition is a viable means to eliminate racial wage discrimination.Design/methodology/approachThis paper utilizes quantile regression to examine the effect of global competition on the racial wage gap of workers in high‐ and low‐concentration industries at different points along the earnings distribution. Additionally, the analysis utilizes the highest level of import penetration in each industry over the sample period to examine whether global competition is a viable means to eliminate racial wage discrimination.FindingsIn concentrated industries, non‐union whites at most skill levels receive a substantial wage premium compared with their black counterparts. Further, imports reduce racial earnings inequality by significantly decreasing the wages of low‐ and medium‐skill non‐union whites. However, imports cannot mitigate racial earnings discrimination for non‐union workers at most skill levels.Practical implicationsThese findings suggest that, if market forces cannot alleviate racial wage discrimination, government anti‐discriminatory policies may be a necessary measure.Originality/valueNo previous study has examined the effect of global competition on the racial wage gap of workers of different skill levels. Further, no study has empirically tested whether international competition is a viable means to eliminate racial wage discrimination.
Making engineering standards available at the University of the West Indies: perspectives of a developing country
Authors: Papin‐Ramcharan Jennifer , Dolland Allison , Dawe Richard A. 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to continue the discussion of the difficulties that librarians face in creating a relevant and useful collection of standards. For developing countries the magnitude of the available standards and the huge costs make this task daunting.Design/methodology/approachThe types of standards, their role in ensuring that the World's structures, facilities, goods, etc. conform to ensure health and safety, the ranges and finally the needs of the University of the West Indies (UWI) are discussed. The UWI Main Library's approaches to grappling with the relevant issues are then explored.FindingsThe electronic age offers speedy access to information resources provided that there are financial resources. Electronic access to such documents as and when they are needed (just‐in‐time philosophy) seems the most viable option, given the cost constraints. Other options could be customised collections crafted to suit the needs of students and faculty, or electronic clearinghouses externally subsidised by a philanthropic body to obtain the articles via an Internet system. Any of these could be developed and ensure cost‐effective seamless access, so giving a world‐class service anywhere in the World. Of course, knowledgeable librarians and good abstracts are also essential.Practical implicationsThe cost of these technical documents is prohibitive for a developing country library to be able to have a large collection of standards but, if there is good internet access and a sound database to obtain abstracts, and if sufficient funds are in place, an efficient procedure could be developed for “just‐in‐time” access.Originality/valueThe paper examines some of the best options available to the Main Library of The University of the West Indies to ensure that engineering students gain access to current standards.
Enhancing gifts‐in‐kind assessment and processing with digital photography
Authors: Bindle David , Boden Catherine 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis paper sets out to explore the potential benefits of using digital photography in the evaluation of prospective donations of book collections.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes a methodology for creating a collection of images to preserve bibliographic information from large book donations where time and distance restrictions limit the ability to carry out a thorough investigation on‐site. This image collection will assist in the initial assessment of the collection's suitability for acceptance, documentation and creation of a gift list.FindingsUsing digital photography allows for relatively quick and comprehensive documentation to aid in the evaluation of large potential gift‐in‐kind donations. Additional benefits realized from acquiring digital images may include automation of gift list creation, publicity for the newly acquired collection, and enhancing exhibitions. This methodology utilizes readily available and affordable equipment that will likely be well within the resources of most libraries.Originality/valueThis paper offers practical advice on employing current and emerging digital technologies to assess and enhance gift‐in‐kind donations.
A basic multi‐media collection by and about J.R.R. Tolkien
Authors: Brennan Croft Janet 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to recommend a basic core collection of works by and about J.R.R. Tolkien for libraries by grade level.Design/methodology/approachThe author draws on her experience as a Tolkien scholar and editor of one of the major journals in the field.FindingsA basic collection should include some works beyond the well‐known Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion.Practical implicationsThe paper provides an ideal list for the library seeking to prepare for interest generated by the new Hobbit movie currently in production.Originality/valueWhile there are other bibliographies on Tolkien available, particularly on fan and society web sites, this one is arranged by grade level and includes audio‐visual materials and recent scholarly and reference works, and is designed for library rather than personal use.
Interview with Duncan Goose, founder – Global Ethics Ltd
Authors: by Juliet Harrison Interview 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an interview with Duncan Goose, co‐founder of Global Ethics, a not‐for‐profit organization whose primary remit is to raise funds for humanitarian projects in developing countriesDesign/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent interviewer.FindingsDuncan left his career in advertising to go on a journey of a lifetime and between 1998 and 2000 he fulfilled his life‐long ambition to ride a motorbike around the world. It was because of the experiences he encountered on this odyssey that he decided to form Global Ethics. Spurred on by a like‐minded group of friends, in 2004 he took on the huge challenge of forming a not‐for‐profit organization called Global Ethics, whose primary remit is to raise funds for humanitarian projects in developing countries.Practical implicationsThe paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that will assist potential entrepreneurs, looking to start up their own business.Social implicationsThe first initiative of Global Ethics was One Water, which donates all its profits to fund the development of unique roundabout powered water pumps, called PlayPumps, in Africa. One was the official water for both Live8 and Make Poverty History and continues to change the way in which people consider buying water and other products and services.Originality/valueThis paper provides Duncan's reflections on his experiences as a successful entrepreneur, offering advice for budding entrepreneurs, highlighting successful business models, and detailing Global Ethics' future plans and projects.
Interview with Chris Ernst and Donna Chrobot‐Mason, authors of Boundary Spanning Leadership
Authors: by Juliet Harrison Interview 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to provide an interview with Chris Ernst and Donna Chrobot‐Mason, authors of Boundary Spanning Leadership, and experts in the field of leadership development and psychology.Design/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent interviewerFindingsThe advances in internet and collaboration technologies have dismantled many of the boundaries that once prevented people from working together. Yet, as physical boundaries were removed, the boundaries that still exist in human relationships remain, in sharp and jagged relief. In a flat world, bridging boundaries between groups is the new and critical work of leadership.Practical implicationsProvides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.Social implicationsProvides strategic insights and practical thinking that can have a broader social impact.Originality/valueBoundary Spanning Leadership outlines six different types of leadership practices: buffering, reflecting, connecting, mobilizing, weaving and transforming. If implemented, these practices can enable leaders to manage boundaries, forge common ground and discover new frontiers.
Gender differences in active labour market policy: The Swedish self‐employment programme
Authors: Månsson Jonas , Delander Lennart 
Published: May 2011

PurposeOne of the most successful labour market programmes in Sweden is a start‐up subsidy programme for job seekers registered at the public employment service. The purpose of this paper is to examine if there are gender differences in outcomes of this programme.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis compares the outcome for female participants of the start‐up programme with that of four other matched groups: male and female non‐participants, male non‐participants, female non‐participants, and male participants.FindingsThe authors' results indicate that females entering the programme have a higher success rate than both female and male non‐participants; however, the impact is less in comparison with male than with female non‐participants. Compared to a matched sample of males in the start‐up scheme, female participants are less successful.Originality/valueThe paper concludes is that it is essential to find evidence regarding which programmes work for which target groups and to find out why effects differ by categories. Such knowledge could be used for fine‐tuning labour market policy programmes.
From desegregation to diversity management in Alabama public universities: a narrative review
Authors: Cox Edmondson Vickie , Dale Louis , Feldman Glenn , Yarber Annice 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to demonstrate that history has much to teach leaders in understanding resistance to affirmative action and how a greater commitment to diversity can be fostered.Design/methodology/approachThis narrative review provides a timeline of a case for resolution‐by‐agreement in the wake of the landmark Knight v. Alabama case.FindingsThere have been dramatic increases in the enrollment of students of color and the presence of African‐American faculty in the three major public universities that comprise the University of Alabama System, as well as others in the state.Research limitations/implicationsThe present review does not contend that historic and fundamental inequities no longer exist in business and society. Moreover, the authors recognize that present inequities in the realms of diversity have important and historical roots. Likewise, there is no attempt to suggest that affirmative action is no longer a necessary or desired program in some areas. Neither do the authors deny the potential for inordinate management influence in the implementation and practice of some programs that focus on “diversity” instead of “affirmative action.”Social implicationsThe numbers are not optimal. But future studies, along with this paper, should make a significant contribution to the affirmative action literature in the hope that organizations of all types may exceed their goals in the area of “diversity” as part of a larger quest for genuine advancements in the realm of diversity and fairness throughout society.Originality/valueThe paper provides an additional lens through which to examine diversity initiatives. Organizations can learn from the resolution‐by‐agreement process used to settle this desegregation dispute.
Extreme weather events and construction SMEs
Authors: Wedawatta Gayan , Ingirige Bingunath , Jones Keith , Proverbs David 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe UK experienced a number of Extreme Weather Events (EWEs) during recent years and a significant number of businesses were affected as a result. With the intensity and frequency of weather extremes predicted in the future, enhancing the resilience of businesses, especially of Small and Medium‐sized Enterprises (SMEs), who are considered as highly vulnerable, has become a necessity. However, little research has been undertaken on how construction SMEs respond to the risk of EWEs. In seeking to help address this dearth of research, this investigation sought to identify how construction SMEs were being affected by EWEs and the coping strategies being used.Design/methodology/approachA mixed methods research design was adopted to elicit information from construction SMEs, involving a questionnaire survey and case study approach.FindingsResults indicate a lack of coping strategies among the construction SMEs studied. Where the coping strategies have been implemented, these were found to be extensions of their existing risk management strategies rather than radical measures specifically addressing EWEs.Research limitations/implicationsThe exploratory survey focused on the Greater London area and was limited to a relatively small sample size. This limitation is overcome by conducting detailed case studies utilising two SMEs whose projects were located in EWE prone localities. The mixed method research design adopted benefits the research by presenting more robust findings.Practical implicationsA better way of integrating the potential of EWEs into the initial project planning stage is required by the SMEs. This could possibly be achieved through a better risk assessment model supported by better EWE prediction data.Originality/valueThe paper provides an original contribution towards the overarching agenda of resilience of SMEs and policy making in the area of EWE risk management. It informs both policy makers and practitioners on issues of planning and preparedness against EWEs.
Management and presentation of Chinese sites for UNESCO World Heritage List (UWHL)
Authors: Wang Tao , Zan Luca 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the main UNESCO sites in China. The cases under study offer some insight into the complexity of the management of Chinese cultural organizations, as well as the problem of the presentation of China's heritage in a new global context.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on field research in 2008/2009 on the Chinese sites on UNESCO's World Heritage List (WHL). While details of the research will be provided in a later stage, some interesting findings and patterns are emerging.FindingsBuilding on the evidence of several case studies, a preliminary evaluation of the costs, the benefits and the negative outcomes of the listing process is presented in the second section. In a nutshell, the process appears to be increasingly expensive for local government and, despite the expectations for successful inscription onto the WHL, results in terms of increased tourism income are not always guaranteed. On the one hand, being listed raises the awareness of heritage protection among the general public but, on the other, there are also risks connected to tourism overexploitation.Originality/valueFrom a methodological point of view the study points out the scarce quality of basic data regarding visitors and financial issues among Chinese World Heritage sites. This is particularly critical for sustainable development if it is considered that a World Heritage site should be accountable to the international audience. In the final section of the paper some open questions concerning sites' management models are presented.
The World Heritage site of Ouro Preto
Authors: de Alvarenga Pereira Costa Stael , Barci Castriota Leonardo , Salgado Marina 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThis article presents the current situation of Ouro Preto, the first Brazilian city to be inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1980. It explores the evolution of the urban form, especially concerning public policies and development strategies as the motors to prompt the city's expansion.Design/methodology/approachLandscape architecture concepts were employed to understand impacts caused by the settlement within its urban landscape. In addition, urban morphology methods were used to research the urban form considered as a product of public policies, shaped by political, social and economic forces. In this manner, building typologies and new urban forms occupying the surrounding hills of the historical city's core were viewed as urban morphology issues, whereas the impact of the new housing scheme on the land and on the city skyline was a subject related to landscape architecture.FindingsIn general, it was observed that the public policies that have been implemented mainly control individual buildings, rather than whole homogeneous areas. Consequently, this has been contributing to environmental damage and the loss of the city's character.Originality/valueThe added value of the article is its contribution to studies focusing on uncontrolled expansions, as well as the occupation of the city's surrounding hills, as it explores the evolution of the city by considering it a product of society's actions that materialise through public policies.
Re‐branding Africa
Authors: Osei Collins , Gbadamosi Ayantunji 
Published: May 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this conceptual paper is to explore how Africa has been branded, and to suggest ways the continent could be re‐branded to attract both international and domestic investments.Design/methodology/approachAn extensive review of literature that encapsulates branding, nation branding, place/destination branding, foreign direct investment and issues associated with investment opportunities in Africa was conducted towards exploring how Africa has been branded and could be re‐branded.FindingsThis paper finds that the extant literature is replete with publications that essentially associate Africa, as a brand, to poverty, underdevelopment, corruption, doom, pestilence and several other inauspicious features. Nonetheless, the article also shows that there are several existing virtues especially in the form of business opportunities in several sectors that could be accorded extensive publicity to espouse the continents' brand equity. These range from agriculture, to tourism, to real estate, to sports and several existing foreign direct investments already thriving in several parts of the continent. Hence, the suggestion for re‐branding Africa as a viable continent for global business transactions is strongly emphasised in the article.Practical implicationsThis paper has a significant implication for positioning Africa as a relevant business partner in the global marketplace by echoing the extensive business opportunities that await both the indigenous and foreign investors in the continent.Originality/valueThe article espouses the brand equity of Africa as a continent and suggests avenues for constantly communicating the inherent virtues of the content to the world towards maintaining her rightful position in the international business community.