17 Articles Published

1. IMPACTS OF WATER PRICING VARIABILITY ON OPTIMALITY CONDITIONS OF WATER-CROP PRODUCTIVITY AND REVENUES MAXIMIZATION

Authors: M. RAGY DARWISH , SAMI N. KHAIRALLAH

Abstract: One of the major daily challenging questions is how to manage the water resources around the globe? Currently, thirty-one countries face water stress and scarcity and over a billion people lack adequate access to clean drinking water. Crucial actions and serious measures should be taken in order to adjust or at least put back on track the deteriorating water resources conditions around the world. One way to enhance water usage is through the implementation of effective and efficient water pricing mechanisms that would lead to better water allocation policies and thus higher water use efficiency. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of applying different water pricing rates on the optimal cropping patterns and water productivity. Linear programming models were built and solved using LINDO software with a multitude of scenarios and sub-scenarios incorporating various constrains such as additional water provision and budget limitations. The study area includes the 700 irrig

Keywords: Linear Programming, Optimization, Optimal cropping pattern, Water productivity, Revenue maximization, Water use efficiency, Benefit cost ratio

Pages: 1 - 8 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-51

2. A STUDY OF ENTREPRENEURIAL STRATEGIES FOR LOCAL INDUSTRIAL REGENERATION

Authors: TAKAO NOMAKUCHI

Abstract: Regional industries of Japan are stalled with no way out, since their direction and position to take have not been clarified. However, the regeneration of regional industries should be proposed to dispel the sense of stagnation that exists throughout Japan. Regional regeneration strategies have been discussed based on a wide variety of approaches including sociology, urban design theory, and the community theory. Yet only a few attempts have been made so far at local industrial regeneration strategies taken by entrepreneurs. Therefore, this article attempts to present a strategy to compare and consider the case where there have been a local industrial regeneration entrepreneur. With respect to local industrial regeneration strategies, this article considers that it is necessary to overcome Innovator’s Dilemmas that exist between the local industrial regeneration and regional industry individuals, to narrow down the regeneration range, to have external entrepreneurs not known to the reg

Keywords: Industrial cluster, Innovator’s Dilemma, Management of Technology, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Brandin

Pages: 24 - 28 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-55

3. NINTENDO – STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT JAPANESE STYLE

Authors: ARON FORST , PARISSA HAGHIRIAN

Abstract: In January 2014 the management of Nintendo released the results of the financial year 2013. The company’s recent results could be compared to playing a video game over and over again, putting in enormous effort and soul, only to experience a major defeat after all. The forecasted profit of 55 billion yen was not reached, and was replaced instead by a loss of around 25 billion yen due to poor sales of the latest console, the Wii-U.

Keywords: Nintendo, Japan, Strategy, Crisis

Pages: 29 - 33 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-56

4. HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT USING PAV (PERSONNEL ADJUSTED ADDED VALUE)

Authors: HIROKI IWAMOTO , MASAKO TAKAHASHI

Abstract: The objective of this study is to provide a quantitative technique by using Personnel adjusted Added Value (PAV) to help managers make decisions by objectively evaluating their Human Capital Management (HCM) and projecting profit increase generated by HCM. The approach of this study is divided into three steps. In the first step, PAV is defined as the corporate output. The data are classified into two groups by Cluster Analysis. In the second step, the factors which represent HCM practices are selected and formulated using Principal Component and Factor Analysis. In the third step, the multiple regression model is constructed to identify the HCM factors which influence PAV. This process establishes the model for objectively judging the success of HCM.

Keywords: human capital management, intangibles, added value

Pages: 34 - 38 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-57

5. APPLYING BACKPROPAGATION NEURAL NETWORK TO PREDICT THE TRADING VOLUME OF CHERRY TOMATOES IN TAIWAN

Authors: DENG-NENG CHEN , SRAYUT TONGNOY , WEN-MING HUNG

Abstract: The agricultural issue is always the critical factor to achieving the sustainability of a country. Due to the growing of plants is affected by weather, season, and lots of external influences, the harvest of crops is unstable and might cause the imbalance between supply and demand in the market. Therefore, the precise prediction of demand in the crops transaction market is important. It is helpful to the farmers to make the cultivating plan and also beneficial to the development of agriculture. In our research, we apply back propagation neutral network (BPNN) to develop a time-series prediction model. The model is used to predict the trading volume of cherry tomatoes in the fruit transaction market in Taiwan. The trading volume indicates the demand in the market, for that reason, the farmers and government can make cultivating plan effectively by the prediction results. We collected the transaction information of cherry tomatoes from 2011 to 2014. The transaction information is used to

Keywords: neural network, time-series analysis, trading volume prediction, cherry tomato

Pages: 39 - 43 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-58

6. EXPATRIATE TRAINING PROGRAM CREATION AND IMPLEMENTATION AS A HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY TOOL TO IMPROVE RETENTION OF HUMAN CAPITAL

Authors: BOB BARRETT

Abstract: Historically, employees sent overseas for various types of assignments, whether short- or long-term in nature, they were given training ranging from little to no pre-departure training. As a result, one of the key problems faced by both the employees and the organization was the decreasing rate of employee retention. While some employees were quite motivated by an overseas assignment, some viewed the assignment as a form of punishment or testing to see if they could survive and remain with the organization. Further, many of these employees felt that they were ill-prepared for such a global assignment, as well as felt that such a relocation could hinder their chances for upward mobility as a result of their time and distance from the main headquarters. Further, their overseas location may also pose a variety of problems for them and their workload with other members of their team as a result of this said time and distance issues. However, many of these anticipated and encountered proble

Keywords: Expatriate, global management, virtual management, human resource management, human capital.

Pages: 44 - 44 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-59

7. ROLE OF SUPPLIER KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT CAPABILITY IN PRODUCT INNOVATION

Authors: RICHARD C.M. YAM

Abstract: This study examines the relationship among supplier knowledge development capability, supplier integration, knowledge sharing, and product innovation. Data were collected from a questionnaire survey, and 210 responses from participants were analyzed using structural equation modeling. After the survey, interviews were conducted to obtain a clearer idea about the real-life situation. Results from the questionnaire show that supplier knowledge development capability is positively related to supplier integration and product innovation. Therefore, firms can include supplier knowledge capability as a criterion when selecting suppliers. The results also have two connected conclusions: a higher level of supplier integration can lead to a higher level of product innovation and knowledge sharing, and more frequent knowledge sharing practices can also encourage product innovation.

Keywords: new product development, supplier knowledge development capability, supplier integration, knowledge sharing, productiInnovation

Pages: 45 - 49 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-60

8. INSIDERS AND IPOS

Authors: HANS JEPPSSON

Abstract: This paper examines insider buying in IPOs and the association with IPO underpricing and price revisions. We find that insider participation is unassociated with IPO underpricing, but when disentangling venture capitalists and corporate partners, the latter is associated with lower IPO underpricing. On the contrary, venture capitalist participation is negatively associated with price revisions and remains robust when examining changes in venture capitalist participation in the bookbuilding period. This paper sheds light on the role of venture capitalists and corporate partners in the initial public offering process and contrasts past research considering IPOs as exit events

Keywords: Initial public offering (IPO); Insider buying; Venture capital; Corporate partners; Certification; Underpricing; Price revision

Pages: 50 - 54 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-72

9. READING MATERIALS VERSUS GRADE LEVEL:IS THERE A MATCH?

Authors: CHRISTIANA JADE C. ALCANCES , JOHN MAR Q. URIBE , LYNN M. BESA , MARA CHARINA M. PETROL

Abstract: Reading is a vital foundation of learning since the first levels of a person’s education. Thus, in order to achieve mastery, practices are made with the use of reading materials in or out of the classroom. Reading materials vary according to purpose and target readers. Teachers who utilize reading materials especially textbooks in the classroom and use it as instructional aid need to thoroughly evaluate the materials to be used in order to cover the competencies and required scope. Hence, there must be bases in selecting the materials to be used especially that the learners are also to take national achievement exams in order to assess their academic achievement. This study then evaluates selected reading materials in the Grades 7, 8 and 9 under the K to 12 program. Readability and ease measurement tests are conducted to determine the mismatches and matches of the texts with the grade level they are taught. Salient features of the materials are also analyzed to improve and suggest stra

Keywords: ading materials, readability, K to 12, ESL, evaluation

Pages: 55 - 59 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-73

10. THE IMPACT OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT ON NIGERIA ECONOMIC GROWTH (1970-2014)

Authors: ABUBAKAR A. KUMO

Abstract: This paper estimates the impact of FDI on Nigeria economic growth using time series data during the period 1970- 2014.The results show that FDI exerts a positive impact on Nigeria economy during the period under review affirming the a priori economic expectation of a positive correlation existing between FDI and growth. Also, most of the variables entered are found to be statistically significant and it is suggested that favourable exchange rate regime and contractionary moThis paper estimates the impact of FDI on Nigeria economic growth using time series data during the period 1970- 2014.The results show that FDI exerts a positive impact on Nigeria economy during the period under review affirming the a priori economic expectation of a positive correlation existing between FDI and growth. Also, most of the variables entered are found to be statistically significant and it is suggested that favourable exchange rate regime anetary policy be implemented and sustained so as to attract FDI.

Keywords: FDI; Economic Growth, Nigeria and Exchange Rate

Pages: 60 - 63 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-74

11. IS INTERNATIONAL TRADE BENEFICIAL TO ALL NATION STATES? AN ANALYSIS OF TRADE IN DEVELOPING AND DEVELOPED COUNTRIES

Authors: NAPAT KITISOOK

Abstract: This paper explores the social and economic implications of international trade. It focuses on the consequences and benefits faced by both the developing and developed nations, and it suggests of policies and ways to tackle trade so that it benefits all parties equally

Keywords: International, Trade Beneficial, Nation States

Pages: 64 - 67 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-75

12. INTEGRATING BUSINESS PURPOSE AND PERFORMANCE - A SIX-DIMENSIONAL MODEL.

Authors: GORDON JAMES KERR

Abstract: In April 2013 a Global Ipsos Mori survey of 24 countries, (1) found that 74% of people af-firmed that a company’s social responsibility (CSR) was an important factor in deciding to purchase a product or service and 84% believed that companies should do more to contribute to society. A further 80% of employees declared that they regarded their employers attitude towards CSR as important. Despite the weight of such public opinion, in both academic and professional circles much of the the debate over the social responsibilities of business has be-come sterile and even subject to ridicule in some popular presses.(2) This working paper seeks to explore some of the limitations of current frameworks used in discourse on CSR and to share some fresh perspectives of the basic conceptual models un-derpinning our understanding of business purpose. We propose a six-dimensional model for evaluation of business performance which builds on the traditional measures of social, envi-ronmental and financi

Keywords: Integrating, Business, Purpose, Performance

Pages: 68 - 70 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-76

13. CONCEPTUALIZING THE APPLICATION OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM IN CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN: CPTED+GIS

Authors: ALDRIN ABDULLAH , MOLOOD SEIFI

Abstract: Geographic information system (GIS) has already found vast popularity as a powerful tool for analyzing crime. The crime maps produced in GIS are mostly analyzed using criminological theories. Moreover, crime analysis outputs are often integrated into law enforcement for policing. However, the application of GIS in crime place theories and practices such as crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) are rather rare. Simultaneously, CPTED needs a more robust tools to cope with its multivariate and intersecting measurement. Hence, the present study sought to conceptualize the method of implementation of GIS in CPTED in the context of university campuses. For this purpose, a thorough review of related literature was conducted. Conjointly, the possibilities of integrating both the systems were contemplated and analyzed. The result of this study showed that GIS is able to store and integrate the vast amount of physical and social data which is required for the comprehensive CPTED

Keywords: Conceptualizing, application, Geographic, information

Pages: 71 - 77 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-77

14. THE HUDUD CONTROVERSY IN CONTEMPORARY MALAYSIA: A STUDY OF ITS PROPOSED IMPLEMENTATION IN KELANTAN AND TERENGGANU

Authors: P. RAJANTHIRAN , R. SIVAPEREGASAM

Abstract: This paper explores and examines Hudud punishments in Islamic penal system, and is specifically purposed to analyse the proposed actualisation of the Hudud law in the two Malay-Muslim dominated states of Kelantan and Terengganu in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This paper is legal normative with descriptive-qualitative approach on both primary and secondary resources in order to obtain a judicial view of the subject matter by employing legal-theoretical and comparative analysis. In Malaysia, the Syariah Criminal Enactment (II) 1993 of Kelantan and the Syariah Criminal Enactment 2003 of Terengganu (as proposed by PAS) allow the application of Hudud laws into the above mentioned states. However, the enforcement of the above in both these states have been suspended indefinitely as UMNO claims these laws are inconsistent with the Federal Constitution - the supreme law of the Federation. This is because the enactment of penal laws is within the jurisdiction of the federal authority

Keywords: Hudud, Islam, Criminal Law, Punishment, Syariah, Society, Federal Constitution, Federation.

Pages: 78 - 82 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-78

15. ANGLO-FRENCH BOUNDARY COMMISSION AND THE BRITISH MILITARY EXPEDITION AGAINST FODAY KABA AND HIS ALLIED 1891-1898

Authors: ENSA TOURAY

Abstract: This paper seeks to explore how the warfare of Kaba and Foday Sillah led to demarcation of boundary between the British and the French. The continuous war of Kaba required an official mapping out of the boundary that would determine the legitimate sphere of influence of French and British for peace and stability in the entire South Bank of the Gambia. It also reveals the determination of British administration in setting up of the military expeditionary force to exterminate the strategic political and military entrenchment of Foday Kaba in the area.

Keywords: Anglo-French, Boundary Commissions, Territory, expeditionary

Pages: 83 - 88 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-96

16. ATTITUDES AND SELF-BELIEFS OF ABILITY TOWARDS MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE AND THEIR EFFECTS ON CAREER CHOICES A CASE STUDY WITH MACAO-CHINESE GIRLS

Authors: ANA MARIA CORREIA , CLARA FERNANDES , JOAO SAMPAIO MAIA

Abstract: This study explores girls’ attitudes and selfassessment of abilities towards mathematics and science and its effects on career preferences. Results from Pisa 2012 stated that Macao girls do as well as boys in mathematics and science. However, less than 0,5% of Macao girls contemplate pursuing a career in mathematics related fields and less than 2% contemplate pursuing a career in science related areas. In this research, which follows a quantitative design and was developed in the academic year of 2013/2014, we studied the female students of Macao secondary schools who also attended a Foreign Language course at Macao Portuguese School. The study is focused on a sample of 45 elements. The “Modified Fennema-Sherman Mathematics and Science Attitude Scales” was adapted to measure students selfbeliefs and attitudes towards mathematics and science along four domains, namely (a) confidence, (b) usefulness, (c) mathematics and science as a male domain, and (d) students’ perceptions of their tea

Keywords: gender gap, Macao, STEM

Pages: 19 - 23 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-54

17. A STUDY OF ENTREPRENEURIAL STRATEGIES FOR LOCAL INDUSTRIAL REGENERATION

Authors: TAKAO NOMAKUCHI

Abstract: Regional industries of Japan are stalled with no way out, since their direction and position to take have not been clarified. However, the regeneration of regional industries should be proposed to dispel the sense of stagnation that exists throughout Japan. Regional regeneration strategies have been discussed based on a wide variety of approaches including sociology, urban design theory, and the community theory. Yet only a few attempts have been made so far at local industrial regeneration strategies taken by entrepreneurs. Therefore, this article attempts to present a strategy to compare and consider the case where there have been a local industrial regeneration entrepreneur. With respect to local industrial regeneration strategies, this article considers that it is necessary to overcome Innovator’s Dilemmas that exist between the local industrial regeneration and regional industry individuals, to narrow down the regeneration range, to have external entrepreneurs not known to the reg

Keywords: Industrial cluster, Innovator’s Dilemma, Management of Technology, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Branding

Pages: 24 - 28 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-085-9-55