bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative advantage and food grain imports in China
Authors: Feng Lu 
Published: July 2007

AbstractOne of the significant features of Chinese economic development in the 1980s was that grain imports increased sharply, while the whole economy experienced rapid growth and reform. This paper attempts to measure the domestic resources costs (DRC) of rice and wheat production in China (two of the most important grains in the Chinese grain sector) during the period 1981–87 and to examine the questions of whether, or to what extent, the level of comparative advantage in grain production can explain the performance of China's grain trade. Substantial comparative advantage in China's rice production and considerable comparative disadvantage in wheat production have been found by the measurement. These preliminary results suggest that the relative costs incurred by China's domestic grain sector were likely to have played some role in determining both the structure of its grain trade and its large scale of net wheat importation in the 1980s.
The start of the sub‐Saharan fertility transition: Some answers and many questions
Authors: Lesthaeghe R. , Jolly C. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractFactors associated with socioeconomic development such as increased education and urbanization were initially associated in sub‐Saharan Africa with an increase in fertility. This was largely due to their eroding effects on durations of breastfeeding and postpartum abstinence, and in some regions also to lowered levels of infecundity. During the 1980's the second phase of the transition emerged in areas located in Eastern and Southern Africa. This phase is characterized by increasing proportions of users of modern contraception and by a decrease in desired family size. Such a decisive turn around did, however, not occur in situations with expanding economies, but rather during the crises of the last decade. The theory of the ‘crisis‐led fertility transition’ can help to explain this outcome, but it also has its limitations. If the crisis deepens and hits the health and education sectors, negative effects emerge as crucial props such as female schooling levels and family planning provisions may suffer severe set‐backs.
Structural adjustment and the environment
Authors: Glover David 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe economic and social effects of structural adjustment attracted considerable attention in the 1980s. In the 1990s, attention has shifted to the environmental effects, in spite of formidable methodological problems. Recent studies show that good macroeconomic management is a necessary but not sufficient condition for environmental protection. The performance of SAPS could be improved in all three areas‐economic, social and environmental‐through greater attention to market failures, institutional factors and other non‐price measures.
Health sector reform and organizational issues at the local level: Lessons from selected African countries
Authors: Møgedal Sigrun , Steen Sissel Hodne , Mpelumbe George 
Published: July 2007

AbstractExperiences with health sector reform in four countries in Eastern and Southern Africa (Botswana, Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia) are discussed. While the aims and options for reform are similar, the context and the approaches taken are different. The paper identifies district level organizational issues arising from decentralization, the introduction of user fees, and privatization, with particular reference to implications for planning and resource allocation and human resource management. Findings suggest that reform requires comprehensive rather than selective approaches, and that inadequate attention has been given to analysing the preconditions for, and implications of, reform efforts and to ensuring consistency. The need for differentiated approaches to reform, and for tailoring reform to the capacity in the system to own and manage reform, is stressed.
Adjustment lending and the restoration of sustainable growth
Authors: Corbo Vittorio , Webb Steven B. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe paper summarizes the results of a major study by the World Bank which evaluates the effects of its adjustment lending in the 1980s in relation to policies for increased growth. Reforms undertaken by Bank adjustment programmes usually contain a macro component designed to bring aggregate demand into balance with aggregate supply, and a micro component designed to increase aggregate supply itself. Countries are grouped into three categories: ‘early intensive adjustment lending’ (EIAL), ‘other adjustment lending’ (OAL) and ‘non‐adjustment lending’ (NAL), and the major findings are that EIAL countries, taken as a group, had better growth performance, markedly better export performance, and worse investment performance (public and private) than countries in the other two groups, even when the influence of external factors such as terms of trade and weather is netted out. The negative effect on investment is worrying in the light of its implications for long‐term growth, and is interpreted in terms of the lack of credibility attaching to a number of government reform programmes. Available data on social indicators — though incomplete — suggest that Bank adjustment lending has not increased absolute poverty, but the shares of central government expenditures for health and education declined on average in the EIAL countries for which data exist. to improve the record on aggregate growth, the report concludes that adjustment policies need to focus more on removing major distortions that reduce efficiency and on creating conditions favourable to renewed investment, particularly by the private sector.
Bangladesh agriculture: Growth, stability and poverty alleviation
Authors: Islam Nurul 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe challenges facing Bangladesh are: (a) how to accelerate agricultural growth through labour‐intensive technological progress and enlarged access to inputs, credits and assets on the part of the poor farmers, and (b) to prevent acute short‐term food deprivations by achieving a reasonable degree of stability of food supplies and prices. In order to make a dent on rural poverty the expansion of non‐farm rural employment in trade, services and rural industries and innovative public employment projects, as well as public food distribution schemes, targeted towards the poorest, are needed.
Social support and managerial affective responses to job stress
Authors: Abdel‐Halim Ahmed A. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis research examines the moderating or buffering effects of two social support variables—support from the work group and from the supervisor—on the relationships of role conflict and ambiguity to intrinsic job satisfaction, job involvement and job anxiety. Data were collected from a sample of 89 middle‐lower managerial personnel in a large, heavy equipment manufacturing firm in the Midwest. The moderated regression technique was used in data analysis. Significant interactions were obtained between the role variables and both social support variables. The results were in the predicted direction for positive work outcomes (i.e. job satisfaction and involvement) and contrary to prediction for negative work outcome (i.e. job anxiety). Implications of the findings for future research, the management of stress and leadership behaviour are discussed.
New hire perceptions of their own and their employer's obligations: A study of psychological contracts
Authors: Rousseau Denise M. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractPsychological contracts are individual beliefs in reciprocal obligations between employees and employers. In a sample of 224 graduating MBA students who had recently accepted job offers, beliefs regarding employment obligations were investigated. Two types of obligation were demonstrated empirically: transactional obligations of high pay and career advancement in exchange for hard work and relational obligations exchanging job security for loyalty and a minimum length of stay. These types of obligations are connected with two forms of legal contracts: transactional and relational. Relational contract obligations for employers correlated with employee expected length of stay with the firm. Transactional contract obligations were associated with careerist motive on the part of new recruits. The relationship between these and other motives of new hires was also investigated.
Identification and investigation of properties of social support
Authors: McIntosh Nancy J. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractIn response to the charge by House and Kahn (1985) that there is lack of specificity in conceptualization and measurement of the social support construct, this paper suggests the need to identify and specifically measure discrete properties of the previously identified dimensions (type and source) of social support. Properties are defined as what it is about combinations of source and type that needs to be measured. Based on literature reviews it is suggested that the relevant properties are amount of support, adequacy of support and number of providers of support. Measures are developed for each property.Data from 186 nurses were used to assess main and moderating effects of social support properties, workload and dying patients on emotional exhaustion and physical symptoms. As predicted, support adequacy was related to perceptions of lower workload. As single predictors, amount and adequacy of support reduced physical symptoms and emotional exhaustion. With amount and adequacy controlled, number of providers increased emotional exhaustion. Amount buffered the relationship between death and emotional exhaustion. Moderate levels of adequacy and number buffered the relationship between workload and exhaustion. Both adequacy and amount of support assisted in coping with patient death. In addition, a number of ‘reverse’ buffering and coping relationships were found.It was concluded that examination of different properties of social support increases our understanding of the impact of social support, and that further research needs to examine the simultaneous effects of various combinations of property, type and source of social support.
Paper people versus direct observation: An empirical examination of laboratory methodologies
Authors: Woehr David J. , Lance Charles E. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis study used Signal Detection Theory (SDT) measures to test competing predictions derived from stimulus presentation mode and signal‐to‐noise ratio hypotheses about differences between paper person and direct observation laboratory studies of individuals' judgments. Subjects viewed a videotape, read a script, or read a list of critical behaviors depicting one of two hypothetical college lectures. Subjects then completed a recognition test of memory for performance behaviors, and rated the lecturer's performance on five performance dimensions. Results supported the signal‐to‐noise hypotheses: behavioral memory and performance ratings were more accurate, and ratings contained less halo in the performance‐signal‐only (list) condition than in the signal‐plus‐noise (script and videotape) conditions. Implications for the conception of performance in laboratory manipulations and the potential effects of performance‐irrelevant information on rating outcomes are discussed.
An empirical analysis of a goal setting questionnaire
Authors: Lee Cynthia , Bobko Philip , Christopher Earley P. , Locke Edwin A. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis research presents an analysis of a goal setting questionnaire developed by Locke and Latham (1984). The Locke and Latham measure attempts to assess the core goal attributes of ‘specificity’ and ‘difficulty’, as well as other attributes of the goal setting process (such as perceptions about ‘performance feedback’, ‘supervisor support’, ‘conflict’ and ‘stress’). The psychometric properties of the measure were examined using respondents from employees of a large, west‐coast electronics organization. A principal components analysis extracted 10 meaningful factors and identified a need for additional items. Results generally supported the meaningfulness of the goal setting factors and provide important directions for future research.
Drinking to cope and self‐medication: Characteristics of jobs in relation to workers' drinking behavior
Authors: Martin Jack K. , Blum Terry C. , Roman Paul M. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis research extends recent studies of the relationship between characteristics of jobs and patterns of workers' alcohol consumption. Working within a ‘generalization perspective ’whereby job conditions are seen as having important effects on the mental health and behaviors of workers in non‐work settings, the current research derives and tests a model of four job‐related factors as they influence three aspects of alcohol use; the simple frequency—quantity of drinking, escapist‐oriented reasons for drinking, and a combination of heavier drinking with escapist‐oriented definitions which is labeled ‘self‐medication’. Analyses of data drawn from the 1973 Quality of Employment Survey (QES) indicate that the relationship between jobs and drinking behavior is more complex than previously conceptualized. Specifically, we find evidence that for working men characteristics of jobs affect levels of alcohol consumption and the incidence of self‐medicating drinking. These findings support and refine job‐based explanations of drinking behavior. The implications of these findings for subsequent research and model‐specification are discussed.
Organizational exit pressures and role stress: Impact on mental health
Authors: Price Richard H. , Hooijberg Robert 
Published: July 2007

AbstractHypotheses regarding role stress, chronic burden and two forms of vulnerability to mental health symptoms are tested in a longitudinal sample of 590 caregivers working in group homes for the mentally ill. In addition, an organizational exit pressure hypothesis is offered. Measures of exit pressure are identified and incorporated into predictive models of stress and mental health. Exit pressures affect somatization directly and interact with role ambiguity to affect subsequent levels of anxiety and somatization. The results suggest that selection pressures in and out of social settings should be conceptualized as part of models of stress and mental health.
The impact of choice of rewards and feedback on task performance
Authors: Williams Steve , Luthans Fred 
Published: July 2007

AbstractA laboratory experiment (N = 149) tested two hypotheses: that choice of reward will have a positive impact on task performance and that choice would lead to arousal, as measured by reaction speed. The role that feedback information concerning whether subjects were being rewarded for performance on a prior task was also examined. The results revealed that choice and choice interacting with feedback were related to performance, but the choice had no impact on arousal. Self‐determination theory may be used to help interpret these findings. The choice and feedback are non‐controlling and informational to recipients which may increase perceptions of competence and self‐initiative with an accompanying increase in intrinsic motivation to perform well on the task. These theoretical implications and some questions for future research and practical applications are discussed.
Industrial relations stress and job satisfaction: Concurrent effects and mediation
Authors: Kelloway E. Kevin , Barling Julian , Shah Afsar 
Published: July 2007

AbstractWe examine the effects of negative and positive industrial relations stress on both mood (negative and positive) and job satisfaction. Twenty industrial relations practitioners completed daily reports of industrial relations stress, mood, and job satisfaction over a 20‐day period. After controlling for serial correlation, negative industrial relations stress affected negative mood and, in turn, job satisfaction. Positive industrial relations stress had direct effects on both positive mood and job satisfaction with positive mood also affecting job satisfaction. All effects were concurrent with no next‐day effects of stress on mood or job satisfaction. Further research on industrial relations stress is both warranted and encouraged.
An investigation into pay valence and performance in a pay‐for‐performance field setting
Authors: Fox Jeremy B. , Scott K. Dow , Donohue Joan M. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractInconsistent findings have been reported in the few studies investigating the relationship between the perceived value of pay and incentive performance. One hundred and seventy‐eight female incentive employees with a nine‐week, non‐judgmental performance measure responded to a developed valence of pay scale. This measure used items assessing the perceived ability of pay to address employee needs. Three factor‐scales were found within these items. Support for the hypothesized positive relationship between pay valence and incentive performance was found, dependent on which of the three scales was used. These findings provide initial insight into the means by which pay, with its ability to address different needs, might provide differential employee motivation and performance levels. This study and future research issues are discussed.
Attitudes toward computers: Construct validation and relations to computer use
Authors: Brock Drew B. , Sulsky Lorne M. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractAttitudes toward computers are generally thought to be composed of two factors: (1) beliefs that the computer is a beneficial tool, and (2) beliefs that computers are autonomous entities. We employed confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to examine (1) the convergent and discriminant validity of scales assessing two attitudes toward computers, (2) the relative predictive validity of the two attitude dimensions with computer use, and (3) a theoretical model of attitudes toward computers and computer use. Results supported the hypothesis that attitudes toward computers are composed of two distinct constructs and the hypothesis concerning the ordering of the two computer attitudes and computer use. We found partial support for the hypothesis that the two attitude factors differ in their prediction of computer use. Overall, the results supported the idea that two distinct beliefs about computers are present and that these two beliefs are significantly related to computer use.
Triangular typology approach to studying performance management systems in high‐tech firms
Authors: Twomey Daniel F. , Quazi Hesan A. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractTo reflect the needs of high‐tech firms and high‐tech employees a set of interrelated models (triangular typology) of performance management systems is developed. The triangular typology articulates and aligns the elements in the performance management process and it expands on traditional binary models by adding a third (high‐tech) dimension for each element. It is hypothesized that high‐tech employees prefer the ‘high‐tech’ dimensions over the other two dimensions of each triangle. A mail questionnaire is used to collect data on the actual and desired performance management practices. All but one of the hypotheses are supported. The ‘actual’ practices are mostly in the traditional corner of the triangle. The disparity between the level of actual practices and the level of desired practices indicates that high‐tech employees are not well served by current performance management systems.
Union loyalty among white‐collar workers in Japan
Authors: Morishima Motohiro 
Published: July 2007

AbstractPrevious research on Japanese union members has documented occupational differences in employees' attitudes toward union organizations (Japan Productivity Center, 1990; Morishima, 1993). Yet, little has been done to examine why these differences occur. This study examines, using a data set obtained in 1987 from about 4000 employees, the correlates of union loyalty across white‐collar and blue‐collar occupations, and among white‐collar occupations. A model is developed from previous research on employees' attitudes toward union organizations and on Japanese industrial relations. The results obtained by OLS analyses of union loyalty correlates—members' judgements of union contributions to improvements in employment outcomes and of employers' human resource policies—indicate that Japanese unions have benefited mainly blue‐collar workers and traditional white‐collar workers, such as those in administrative positions, relative to those in technical positions.
A strategic approach for integrating theory to practice in leadership development
Authors: Ladyshewsky Richard K. 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the impact of experiential learning, goal setting, peer coaching and reflective journaling as a combined strategy to influence leadership development.Design/methodology/approachSubjects participated in a university based leadership development program over two years. Four focal units of study were undertaken. Participants set development plans based on their learning and implemented them over eight weeks with the support of a peer coach. A pre, mid‐ and post‐ 360‐degree assessment was undertaken to measure changes in leadership competency. Learning outcomes and coaching reports were also submitted and evaluated qualitatively.FindingsA progressive increase in leadership competency was report by participants and their work colleagues in the 360‐degree data. Qualitative data revealed a range of learning outcomes that elevated their leadership competency.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this research provide a model for further investigations into how training can be structured to promote transfer of training.Originality/valueConsidering the investment being made by organizations into leadership development, this research provides a strategy for increasing return on investment in leadership development.
The value of diversity: the Kazakhstan perspective
Authors: Kim Cheng Low Patrick 
Published: July 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the value of diversity in business in Kazakhstan, analysing the possible opportunities, benefits and, if any, negatives or downsides for companies that diversity can bring.Design/methodology/approachFocus groups and interviews.FindingsThe position of women and minorities were uncovered. The findings also show how open are the Kazakhstani people to foreigners and to what extent are foreigners accepted in Kazakhstan.Research limitations/implicationsThough supplemented with interviews, more focus groups may be applied. The study has been limited to Almaty, the most diverse city in Kazakhstan. Perhaps it would have different results if it had been conducted in other major cities.Practical implicationsAllows a survey of the possible opportunities/benefits and threats/costs of diversity that may be reaped by the Republic of Kazakhstan.Originality/valueProvides continuing perspectives on the issue of diversity, which is one of the globalisation impacts or waves affecting organizations.