Local Market (local + market)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Business, Economics, Finance and Accounting


Selected Abstracts


Impact of the Community Reinvestment Act on New Business Start-Ups and Economic Growth in Local Markets,

JOURNAL OF SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, Issue 4 2009
Nada Kobeissi
Economic growth in the United States has historically bypassed many minorities and low-income communities. Some researchers and community advocates assert that the deterioration of these communities is in part caused by financial institutions' redlining and neglect. To rectify the situation, the government introduced the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) for the purpose of encouraging banks and saving institutions to become more socially responsible and help meet the credit needs of communities in which they are located. The CRA was the government's response to bank lending discrimination. However, when passing the Act, Congress was equally concerned with reversing or at least halting disinvestment from inner-city communities and in turn revitalizing local economies. Many believe that the availability of credit to establish, refinance, and improve small businesses is critical to the well-being of local communities. Therefore, through the provision of small business loans, the CRA could be envisioned as a catalyst toward achieving that goal. Thus the aim of this paper is to investigate potential relationship between banks' CRA lending activities, and new business start-ups and economic growth in local markets. The paper proposes that new start-ups will have spillover effects that will consequently contribute to community development. After controlling for several potential variables that could have an impact on business start-ups and community developments, the study found a strong positive effect. Beside its social and economic implications, the study also considered policy implications associated with the CRA regulation as a welfare improving initiative in low-income communities. It offers ground for certain government intervention in the loan market. [source]


Why Do Banks Go Abroad?,Evidence from German Data

FINANCIAL MARKETS, INSTITUTIONS & INSTRUMENTS, Issue 1 2000
Claudia M. Buch
This paper provides empirical evidence on the determinants of foreign activities of German banks. We use regionally disaggregated panel data for the years 1981,98 and distinguish foreign direct investment from total foreign assets of domestic banks, of their foreign branches and of their subsidiaries. Foreign activities are found to be positively related to demand conditions on the local market, foreign activities of German firms, and the presence of financial centers. This supports the hypothesis that German banks follow their customers abroad. Exchange rate volatility has some negative impact. EU membership and the abolition of capital controls seem to have exerted a greater influence on foreign assets than on FDI of German banks, thus weakly supporting the hypothesis that the two are substitutes. [source]


Determination of the aroma impact compounds in heated sweet cream butter

FLAVOUR AND FRAGRANCE JOURNAL, Issue 4 2003
D. G. Peterson
Abstract This study was conducted to determine which volatile compounds are primarily responsible for the aroma of heated sweet cream butter. Static headspace analysis was used for aroma isolation and gas chromatography,olfactometry (GC,O) for the selection of odour-active components. Quanti,cation of selected odourants was done via purge and trap-GC/mass spectrometry (MS). Nineteen odour-active compounds were detected in the headspace (static) of heated butter (hydrogen sulphide, methanethiol, acetaldehyde, 2,3-butanedione, 1-hexen-3-one, butanoic acid, 3-methylbutanoic acid, 2-heptanone, methional, dimethyl trisulphide, 1-octen-3-one, hexanoic acid, furaneol, , -hexanolactone, nonanal, (E)-2-nonenal, , -octanolactone, skatole and , -decanolactone). Aroma recombination studies followed by sensory analysis indicated that the aroma of our heated butter model was rated the same (similarity) as a heated commercial butter (obtained from local market) in comparison to a heated freshly manufactured butter. The aroma of a heated commercial unsalted butter and a heated butter aroma model of Budin 1 also were signi,cantly less similar than the aroma of our heated butter model in comparison to a heated freshly manufactured butter. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


The importance of understanding the shape of diverse ethnic female consumers for developing jeans sizing systems

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONSUMER STUDIES, Issue 2 2007
Su-Jeong Hwang Shin
Abstract This study has been conducted to investigate the fit issues related to the current apparel pants and jeans sizing system for diverse consumers, identifying body shape differences among ethnic groups. A total of 1335 women in a certain size range (Misses figure type sizes 2,20) were selected in the study. A Misses figure type size category is commonly used for adult women of average proportion and height. First, the body dimension differences among ethnic groups were examined with a single factor analysis of variance. Second, the fit of pants and jeans for the diverse consumers within the same size category was examined with the current standard sizing system, ASTM D5585 for adult female Misses figure type sizes 2,20. Three cases were programmed within a database: When each consumer selects a size for a pair of jeans based on (1) waist size; (2) hip size; and (3) waist height (usually pants length). And last, the results were analysed with fit comparison plots. Current jean consumers are racially diversified in the US and globally as well. This study revealed that ethnic groups had different fit problems and significant body shape differences. Even within the same figure type size category, a variety of body dimensions existed in each ethnic group. According to the fit problem assessment in this study, consumers within the same body figure type size category could not find the right fit of the pants and jeans within the current sizing system. Half of the female consumers could not find a garment to fit based on waist height (pants length) because the current sizing systems overlooked the effect of diverse consumers. This study will be useful for standardizing organizations to modify current sizing systems for diverse ethnic consumer groups as a demographic factor so that apparel companies could provide better quality of fit for their consumers in the global and local market. [source]


Anti-oxidant activity of added tea catechins on lipid oxidation of raw minced red meat, poultry and fish muscle

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2001
Shuze Tang
The comparative anti-oxidative effects of added tea catechins (TC) and ,-tocopherol to raw minced red meat (beef and pork), poultry (chicken, duck and ostrich) and fish (whiting and mackerel) muscle on susceptibility to lipid oxidation were investigated during 10 days of refrigerated (4 °C) display. Fresh meats, poultry and fish, purchased from a local market, were trimmed to remove bones, skin and surface fat and minced through a 4 mm plate. The minced muscle of each species was treated with either the addition of 300 mg TC kg,1 minced muscle (TC300) or 300 mg ,-tocopherol kg,1 minced muscle (VE300). Minced muscle without any additives served as control (C). Oxidative stability (TBARS) was measured at 3-day intervals. Total lipids, fatty acid composition, total iron and haem iron from minced muscle for each species were also analysed. The susceptibility of untreated minced muscle to lipid oxidation was in the decreasing order: mackerel > beef > duck > ostrich > pork , chicken > whiting. This may be because of the different content of total fat, iron and fatty acid composition between species. The TC300 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced lipid oxidation compared with controls for all seven species as shown by lower TBARS values. The anti-oxidant potential of TC was two to fourfold greater than that of ,-tocopherol at the same concentration and this potential was species dependent. The VE300 showed limited capacity in inhibiting lipid oxidation for pork, chicken, duck and whiting. The results obtained show that TCs are powerful natural antioxidants when used in minced muscle food. [source]


Brazil: Drug Trafficking in the Federal State of Rondônia

INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL SCIENCE JOURNAL, Issue 169 2001
Christian Geffray
This article describes some of the main social and political consequences of the emergence of the cocaine trade in Brazilian Amazonia, taking as an example the state of Acre. Drug trafficking, which concerns all sections of society, has, like other illegal networks, become an alternative to the rubber industry, which has been in crisis since the 1980s. Its implications differ, however, in the northern and southern parts of the state. In the latter, especially in the capital, Acre, the development of a local market of urban consumers is closely connected to police corruption and the illegal use of violence by law enforcement agencies. In the former, where machinery for the social redistribution of illegal income seems to be more effective, the cocaine trade is contributing to a degree of prosperity, thanks in particular to recent growth in the service sector. While violence is, comparatively speaking, less necessary as a guarantee of social control in that region, the control exercised by drug barons and business people over the executive branches of the state means that political life as a whole is criss-crossed by relationships forged in the criminal world. [source]


The Drug Trade, the Black Economy, and Society in Western Amazonia

INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL SCIENCE JOURNAL, Issue 169 2001
Roberto Araújo
This article describes some of the main social and political consequences of the emergence of the cocaine trade in Brazilian Amazonia, taking as an example the state of Acre. Drug trafficking, which concerns all sections of society, has, like other illegal networks, become an alternative to the rubber industry, which has been in crisis since the 1980s. Its implications differ, however, in the northern and southern parts of the state. In the latter, especially in the capital, Acre, the development of a local market of urban consumers is closely connected to police corruption and the illegal use of violence by law enforcement agencies. In the former, where machinery for the social redistribution of illegal income seems to be more effective, the cocaine trade is contributing to a degree of prosperity, thanks in particular to recent growth in the service sector. While violence is, comparatively speaking, less necessary as a guarantee of social control in that region, the control exercised by drug barons and business people over the executive branches of the state means that political life as a whole is criss-crossed by relationships forged in the criminal world. [source]


Profitability differences between MNE subsidiaries and domestic firms: The case of the food industry in Greece

AGRIBUSINESS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL, Issue 1 2004
George Anastassopoulos
This report analyzes determinants of profitability differences between subsidiaries of Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) and Domestic Enterprises (DMEs) in the Greek food industry using company level data. Previous studies have tested the hypothesis that ownership-specific advantages are a major determinant of performance differences. This study analyzes the processed food sector (SIC = 20), using a panel data set for 75 firms and 5 years. The model is evaluated using a random effects model. The results indicate that the determinants of profitability differ between MNEs subsidiaries and DMEs. MNEs' profitability depends on their market share, knowledge, and experience of the local market; training intensity; and product differentiation through the use of technological inputs from abroad and local advertising. DMEs' profitability depends on their market share and product differentiation, through local advertising and local R&D. Size has a negative effect on profitability for both groups of companies. Even after allowing for all of these determinants of profitability, ownership has an independent effect on profitability (namely higher for MNE subsidiaries than DMEs). [EconLit citations: F23, L66, L69]. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Agribusiness 20: 45,60, 2004. [source]


PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ANALYSES, SENSORY EVALUATION AND POTENTIAL OF MINIMAL PROCESSING OF PEJIBAYE (BACTRIS GASIPAES) COMPARED TO MASCARENES PALMS

JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 2010
J. JOAS
ABSTRACT A palm species native of South America, pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes), was recently introduced in Reunion Island in an attempt to diversify its agriculture. Morphological analyses highlighted the agronomic advantages of pejibaye including a high weight-to-harvest-date ratio compared to three mascarenes palm species. Sensory analyses by a trained panel allowed the elaboration of sensory profiles of the four palms tested. Ranking test done by 120 consumers revealed that pejibaye was preferred to the Mascarenes palms at the 5% level of significance and triangle test showed that Acanthophoenix rubra (red palm), the most cultivated species for the local market, was significantly different from pejibaje at the 1% level. Phenolic profiles revealed that pejibaye differed from the other species by a peak absorbing at 272 nm and weak polyphenol oxidase activities. As no browning reaction was observed in fresh cut pejibaye, this palm could be used for minimal processing (local and export market). PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Sensorial characteristics of fresh hearts of palm are different of those of canned heart of palm, and fresh heart palms are generally preferred by consumers. However, the marketing of fresh palm is limited by the high level of oxidation of most of palm species. The high stability of pejibaye after cutting and its slow rate of oxidation offer the possibility of minimal processing, without special additives. So the packaging in wrapped trays of this palm, cut and stored at low temperature opens up new perspectives, ensuring sensorial quality of a "fresh" product with a shelf life allowing a controlled management of market supply. [source]


PRELIMINARY STUDIES ON PHYSICAL AND NUTRITIONAL QUALITIES OF SOME INDIGENOUS AND IMPORTANT RICE CULTIVARS OF NORTH-EASTERN HILL REGION OF INDIA

JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 6 2008
TH. PREMILA DEVI
ABSTRACT The northeastern hills of India are endowed with rich source of rice germplasm, which may be safely estimated about 9,000 accessions, excluding the redundancies. Even though much of the germplasm have been collected, studies on nutritional aspects of these local cultivars are still lacking. Fifteen important indigenous rice genotypes collected from different rice growing ecosystem of this region were studied for physical and nutritional qualities. Kernel color of the genotypes varied from white to dark purple. All the genotypes except Manipuri were of bold-grain type. Most of the genotypes studied have fat contents more than 2.0%. The protein content was found higher in Chahou angouba and Naga special. Five cultivars were identified as high-protein cultivars of rice, with 10,12.07% protein content. Amylose content varied from 2.27 to 24.5%. Most of long-grained genotypes recorded lesser amylose than short grained. Chahou varieties were found aromatic and glutinous, which demand higher market prices in local market. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The north-eastern hills of India are endowed with rich source of rice germplasm, and much of the germplasm have been collected, but studies on basic and advanced nutritional aspects of these local cultivars are still lacking. This part of India has valuable rice genotypes of strong aroma, glutinous characters and slender grains with high amount of protein, fat and fiber. Having not known to the rest of the world and even to indigenous end users, some of such cultivars have already been lost, and some more are at the verge of extinction. Quality evaluation done in the present study provided useful information on their commercial exploitation and utilization in breeding programs of nutritional enhancement of rice to fight malnutrition among rice-consuming population, which is largest in the world. [source]


RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SENSORY AND TEXTURE MEASUREMENT OF JAMUN AND POSITIONING OF JAMUN SAMPLES

JOURNAL OF SENSORY STUDIES, Issue 1 2002
R. RAVI
ABSTRACT Profilograms based on the quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) of jamun using nine attributes were drawn for four market samples and ten samples prepared using various instant mixes available in the local market. The instrumental texture measurement of shear values were determined for all the samples. Correlations between sensory and instrumental texture measurement (shear force) were studied. The shear values were found to be correlated positively with softness, juiciness and milkiness. Further canonical discriminant analysis was run to position the samples in relation to others. The results indicated that samples M1, M2, M4, S3, S4, S6 and S10 group together in the same quadrant which represents desirable attributes of jamun viz, color, softness, juiciness, milkiness and overall quality. The jamuns from the instant mixes (S) can replace the control samples, traditionally prepared market samples (M) as they match the product profile very closely. [source]


Screening food products for the presence of CaMV 35S promoter and NOS 3, terminator

JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 12 2005
Hanaa AS Oraby
Abstract Biotechnology has enabled the modification of agricultural materials in a very precise way, thereby improving productivity and yields of economically important crops. There are a number of methods available for detecting genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In the present investigation, a qualitative PCR technique has been adopted in order to discriminate between genetically modified and non-modified food products. The qualitative PCR assay employs primers specific for genetic elements that are used to generate genetically engineered agricultural crops. Two of the most common primers used for the detection of GMOs, 35S promoter and NOS 3, terminator, have been tested over a panel of 24 food products purchased from the local market. The results indicated that, out of the 24 food products tested, three products gave positive results with the 35S promoter. The NOS 3, primers gave negative results with all tested samples. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


Dietary effects on growth, plasma lipid and tissues of rats fed with non-conventional oil of Telfairia occidentalis

JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 13 2004
Ibironke A Ajayi
Abstract The nutritional value of Telfairia occidentalis seed and seed oil available in local market was studied in rats. The average values of the proximate analysis on dry matter basis were 203 g kg,1 crude protein, 536.3 g kg,1 fat, 39 g kg,1 ash, 95 g kg,1 crude fibre and 43.7 g kg,1 carbohydrate, while the moisture content was 75 g kg,1. The mineral analyses showed that T occidentalis seeds contain potassium (3280 mg kg,1), sodium (1230 mg kg,1), magnesium (60.8 mg kg,1), calcium (60.8 mg kg,1) and iron (13.0 mg kg,1). The oil extracted from the seed sample showed physicochemical properties that suggest its suitability for edible and industrial uses. The oil contained high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, oleic and linoleic, which accounted for 63.22% of total fatty acids recovered, while palmitic acid (27.4% of the oil by weight) was the most prevalent saturated fatty acid in the oil. No trace of eleostearic acid was detected in the oil. The effect on physical appearance, weight gain, organ weight, tissue and plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels was determined in rats fed a diet containing 5% T occidentalis oil. These were compared with those of rats fed a control diet (0% T occidentalis oil) over an 8 week study period. Weekly monitoring of the rats showed good physical appearance and steady weight increase. The test rats were not anaemic and no mortality was recorded. While there was a significantly higher (p < 0.05) level of cholesterol in the heart of test rats compared with the control, there was a significantly lower (p < 0.05) plasma cholesterol level, suggesting that T occidentalis seed oil can be used to lower plasma levels of cholesterol. Histological examination of the sections of the heart, liver, kidney and spleen of the test rats revealed varying degrees of pathology. These include artherosclerotic changes in the walls of vasa vasori and lymphatics in the heart and hyaline degeneration of myofibrils, fatty infiltration of hepatocytes, and glomerular and tubular degeneration in the kidneys. These lesions may have been due to the effect of fatty acids, especially erucic acid, in the seed oil, which at 1.24% (less that the 5% conventional allowable limit for edible oils) may be intolerable for rats and may be unsuitable for human consumption. The seed oil may be used for industrial purposes such as soap making, lubrication and cosmetics for which it is well suited. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


Using farmer knowledge to combat low productive spots in rice fields of a Sahelian irrigation scheme

LAND DEGRADATION AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2004
P. J. A. van Asten
Abstract In the oldest sections of Burkina Faso's largest irrigation scheme in the Sourou Valley (13°,10,,N, 03°,30,W) rice (Oryza sativa L.) yields dropped from about 5 to 6,t,ha,1 in the early 1990s, shortly after establishment of the scheme, to 2 to 4,t,ha,1 from 1995 onwards. Farmers blamed this yield decline on the appearance of 2 to 20,m diameter low productive spots. According to farmers and field measurements, the low productive spots decreased yields by 25,50 per cent. The low productive spots are caused by Zn deficiency. Low Zn availability is related to the very low DTPA-extractable Zn content of the soil (0·08,0·46,mg,kg,1), the alkaline-calcareous character of the soil, the non-application of Zn fertilizers, and a relatively large P fertilizer dose (21,kg,P,ha,1). Farmers were correct in relating the calcareous nature of the soil to the presence of the low productive spots. They were instrumental in identifying application of decomposed organic resources (e.g. rice straw at 5,t,ha,1) as a short-term solution that increases yields by 1·5 to 2·0,t,ha,1. Application of Zn fertilizer (10,kg,Zn,ha,1) in 29 farmer fields in the 2001 dry season eradicated the low productive spots and increased yields from 3·4 to 6·0,t,ha,1. Although application of Zn fertilizer is strongly recommended, it is not yet available in Burkina Faso. Based on a comparison of fertilizer prices on the world market and the local market, we expect that the use of Zn fertilizers will be highly profitable (cost/value ratio,,,2). Despite the relatively recent introduction of irrigated rice cropping, most farmers showed a good understanding of cropping constraints and possible solutions. Both farmers and researchers mutually benefited from each other's knowledge and observations. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


West Africa plans ambitious gas-to-power program

OIL AND ENERGY TRENDS, Issue 11 2006
Article first published online: 9 NOV 200
For several years, Nigeria produced more natural gas than it could sell. The result was high levels of flaring. Recently, it has tried to reduce the amount flared, leaving it with potentially more gas to sell. A large, new, local market is now beginning to emerge in the form of gas-fired power stations across West Africa. Nigeria is planning a large number, as are many of its neighbours, and an export pipeline linking Nigeria with its western neighbours is already under construction. [source]


Seed transmission of maize downy mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi) in Nigeria

PLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2000
V. O. Adenle
In an area of Nigeria where downy mildew of maize is present, histological assessment of maize seed revealed the presence of mycelium and oospores of Peronosclerospora sorghi in the kernels. Seed transmission of downy mildew of maize was demonstrated when grain purchased at local markets gave mean seedling infection rates of 12·3% (untreated seeds) and 10·0% (in metalaxyl-treated seeds) within 7 days of emergence, after storage in a desiccator for 30 days. When untreated seeds taken from nubbin ears of systemically infected plants from four states in southern Nigeria were planted at 9 days (17,22% moisture content) and 27 days (9,22% moisture content) after harvest, 20·0% infected seedlings resulted in both trials. Seeds from Borno state in northern Nigeria had 26·6% systemic seedling infection after 9 months of storage at 11% moisture content. When seeds harvested from maize plants inoculated with P. sorghi through silks were examined histologically, hyphae of P. sorghi were observed mostly in the scutellum of the embryo. Transmission of disease to seedlings was observed when the silk-inoculated seeds (9% moisture content) were planted in pots in a greenhouse; however, no disease transmission was observed when such seeds were planted in the field. The epidemiological significance of seed transmission is discussed with particular reference to survival of inoculum and development of epidemics. Also noteworthy is the overall significance of seed transmission in Nigeria, where the major source of seed is that saved by farmers from their grain crop, occasionally supplemented by seed bought from the local market. [source]


Capitalising the Value of Free Schools: The Impact of Supply Characteristics and Uncertainty,

THE ECONOMIC JOURNAL, Issue 499 2004
Paul Cheshire
This paper explores the sources and impact of variations of a given school quality at either primary or secondary level as capitalised into the price of houses. The results provide new evidence on the complex and subtle ways in which housing markets capitalise the value of local public goods such as school quality and suggest that this is highly nonlinear. We expect variation in the capitalised price according to the elasticity of supply of ,school quality' in the local market, the certainty with which that quality can be expected to be maintained and the suitability of the dwelling to accommodate children. [source]


DISTANCE, BANK HETEROGENEITY AND ENTRY IN LOCAL BANKING MARKETS,

THE JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL ECONOMICS, Issue 3 2008
ROBERTO FELICI
We examine the determinants of entry into Italian local banking markets during the period 1991,2002 and build a simple model in which the probability of branching in a new market depends on the features of both the local market and the potential entrant. Econometric findings show that banks are more likely to expand into those markets that are closest to their pre-entry locations. Large banks are also more able to cope with distance-related entry costs than small banks. Finally, banks have become increasingly able to open branches in distant markets, due to the advent of information and communication technologies. [source]


Nutritional Response to the 1998 Bangladesh Flood Disaster: Sphere Minimum Standards in Disaster Response

DISASTERS, Issue 3 2002
Max R. O'Donnell
In this study we use a cross,sectional survey to evaluate the nutritional response to the 1998 Bangladesh Flood Disaster by 15 relief agencies using standards developed by the Sphere Project. The Sphere Project is a recent attempt by agencies around the world to establish universal minimum standards for the purpose of ensuring quality and accountability in disaster response. The main outcomes measured were resources allocated to disaster relief, types of relief activities and percentage of agencies meeting selected Sphere food aid and nutrition indicators. Although the process of nutritional response was measured, specific nutritional and health outcomes were not assessed. This review found that self,reported disaster and nutritional resources varied widely between implementing agencies, ranging from US$58,947 to $15,908,712. The percentage of resources these agencies allocated to food aid and nutritional response also varied, ranging from approximately 6 to 99 per cent of total resources. Agencies met between 8 and 83 per cent of the specific Sphere indicators which were assessed. Areas in which performance was poor included preliminary nutritional analysis; beneficiary participation and feedback; disaster preparedness during non,emergency times; monitoring of local markets and impact assessment. Agencies were generally successful in areas of core humanitarian response, such as targeting the vulnerable (83 per cent) and monitoring and evaluating the process of disaster response (75 per cent). The results here identify both strengths and gaps in the quality of humanitarian response in developing nations such as Bangladesh. However, they also raise the question of implementing a rights,based approach to disaster response in nations without a commitment to meeting positive human rights in non,disaster times. [source]


The Strategic Localization of Transnational Retailers: The Case of Samsung-Tesco in South Korea

ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY, Issue 1 2006
Neil M. Coe
Abstract: This article contributes to the small but growing geographic literature on the internationalization of retailing by exploring the strategic localization of transnational retailers. While it has long been recognized that firms in many different sectors localize their activities to meet the requirements of different national and local markets, the imperative is particularly strong for retail transnational corporations (TNCs) because of the extremely high territorial embeddedness of their activities. This embeddedness can be seen through the ways in which retailers seek to establish and maintain extensive store networks, adapt their offerings to various cultures of consumption, and manage the proliferation of connections to the local supply base. We illustrate these conceptual arguments through a case study of the Samsung-Tesco joint venture in South Korea, profiling three particular aspects of Samsung-Tesco's strategic localization: the localization of products, the localization of sourcing, and the localization of staffing and strategic decision making. In conclusion, we argue that the strategic localization of transnational retailers needs to be conceptualized as a dynamic that evolves over time after initial inward investment and that localization should be seen as a two-way dynamic that has the potential to have a wider impact on the parent corporation. [source]


A National Study of Efficiency for Dialysis Centers: An Examination of Market Competition and Facility Characteristics for Production of Multiple Dialysis Outputs

HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH, Issue 3 2002
Hacer Ozgen
Objective. To examine market competition and facility characteristics that can be related to technical efficiency in the production of multiple dialysis outputs from the perspective of the industrial organization model. Study Setting. Freestanding dialysis facilities that operated in 1997 submitted cost report forms to the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), and offered all three outputs,outpatient dialysis, dialysis training, and home program dialysis. Data Sources. The Independent Renal Facility Cost Report Data file (IRFCRD) from HCFA was utilized to obtain information on output and input variables and market and facility features for 791 multiple-output facilities. Information regarding population characteristics was obtained from the Area Resources File. Study Design. Cross-sectional data for the year 1997 were utilized to obtain facility-specific technical efficiency scores estimated through Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). A binary variable of efficiency status was then regressed against its market and facility characteristics and control factors in a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Principal Findings. The majority of the facilities in the sample are functioning technically inefficiently. Neither the intensity of market competition nor a policy of dialyzer reuse has a significant effect on the facilities' efficiency. Technical efficiency is significantly associated, however, with type of ownership, with the interaction between the market concentration of for-profits and ownership type, and with affiliations with chains of different sizes. Nonprofit and government-owned facilities are more likely than their for-profit counterparts to become inefficient producers of renal dialysis outputs. On the other hand, that relationship between ownership form and efficiency is reversed as the market concentration of for-profits in a given market increases. Facilities that are members of large chains are more likely to be technically inefficient. Conclusions. Facilities do not appear to benefit from joint production of a variety of dialysis outputs, which may explain the ongoing tendency toward single-output production. Ownership form does make a positive difference in production efficiency, but only in local markets where competition exists between nonprofit and for-profit facilities. The increasing inefficiency associated with membership in large chains suggests that the growing consolidation in the dialysis industry may not, in fact, be the strategy for attaining more technical efficiency in the production of multiple dialysis outputs. [source]


Recovery from bark harvesting of 12 medicinal tree species in Benin, West Africa

JOURNAL OF APPLIED ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2009
Claire Delvaux
Summary 1The growing interest in medicinal plants from both international industry and local markets requires management of tree bark harvesting from natural forests in order to prevent inappropriate exploitation of target species. This study was designed to determine the bark re-growth response of a selected number of medicinal tree species as a basis for the development of an optimal bark harvesting method. 2In 2004, bark was harvested from 925 trees belonging to 12 species in 38 sites in a dry forest in Benin, West Africa. Two years later, the response of trees to bark harvesting was examined with respect to re-growth (edge or sheet), development of vegetative growth around the wound, and the sensitivity of the wound to insect attack. 3Two species, Khaya senegalensis and Lannea kerstingii, showed complete wound recovery by edge growth. At the other extreme, Afzelia africana, Burkea africana and Maranthes polyandra had very poor edge growth. M. polyandra showed good sheet growth, whereas the other 11 species had none or poor sheet growth after total bark harvesting. In contrast, partial bark removal allowed better sheet growth in all 12 species studied. 4Insect sensitivity was species-specific. Insect attacks were negatively correlated with non-recovered wound area, but there was a marked species effect for the same rate of regeneration. L. kerstingii and K. senegalensis had very good and similar re-growth, but L. kerstingii was very susceptible to insect attack, whereas K. senegalensis appeared to be very resistant. Only a few individuals developed vegetative growth, and each tree usually developed only one or two agony shoots, but there was no significant difference between species. 5Synthesis and applications. This is the first study to provide data on the ability of trees to close wounds after bark harvesting in West Africa. We report large variability in the response of different species to our bark harvesting technique, and identify just two out of the 12 study species as suitable for sustainable bark harvesting. Based on our results, we developed a decisional step method to help forest managers select the best techniques for managing medicinal tree species as an alternative to bark harvesting, for example, coppice management, harvesting leaves instead of bark, stand establishment, and collaboration with timber companies. [source]


An empirical investigation of Wal-Mart's expansion into food retailing

AGRIBUSINESS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL, Issue 2 2010
Alessandro Bonanno
After revolutionizing the concept of mass merchandising with its Discount Stores, Wal-Mart has entered food retailing with its Supercenters, and has become the largest food retailer in the United States. Despite its relevance, little empirical research has focused on explaining the company's entry and expansion into food retailing. Wal-Mart's expansion into food retailing through its store conversion strategy is analyzed using an industrial organization entry framework. The results show that Wal-Mart's store conversion strategy has targeted largely populated areas with low population density, a high percentage of population receiving food stamps, and where the presence of incumbents is modest. The results also provide evidence that as the company moves toward saturation of local markets and increases store conversion rates, it may be forced to reconsider some of its strategic decisions based on the exploitation of economies of density and store conversion. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]


Consumer preferences for quality characteristics along the cowpea value chain in Nigeria, Ghana, and Mali

AGRIBUSINESS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL, Issue 1 2009
Fulgence Joseph Mishili
The production and trade of cowpea is a growing business in West Africa. But a better understanding of consumer preferences is essential to market development. The objective of the study was to determine the impact of cowpea grain quality characteristics on market price. The data for the study were collected from markets in Nigeria, Ghana, and Mali. Hedonic pricing methods provide a statistical estimate of premiums and discounts. The results indicated that cowpea consumers in Ghana, Mali, and Nigeria are willing to pay a premium for large cowpea grains. Bruchid damage is not statistically significant in any market. The impact of price on other cowpea quality characteristics such as skin color and texture and eye color vary locally. Implications for development of the cowpea value chain are as follows: (a) researchers should identify cost-effective ways to increase cowpea grain size because larger grain are preferred and (b) serving local markets requires a portfolio of grain skin and eye color and skin texture combinations. [EconLit citations: Q130]. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]


Competitiveness and consumer preferences of U.S. fruits in Taiwan

AGRIBUSINESS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL, Issue 4 2004
Jane Lu Hsu
This study utilizes the source,position,performance framework to examine the competitiveness and consumer preferences of U.S. fruits versus Taiwanese fruits in the local markets based on the views of retailers and consumers. Retailers who sell relatively more U.S. fresh fruits over total values of fruit sales favor the characteristics of U.S. fresh fruits. Consumers do not value the relative importance of characteristics of U.S. fresh fruits as much as retailers do. Strategic marketing plans need to be designed for both retailers and consumers to strengthen the acceptance of U.S. fresh fruits. A well-balanced promotion strategy emphasizing the overall superiority of profit-driven characteristics of U.S. fruits may encourage retailers to sell more U.S. fresh fruits. Highlighting information related to price and freshness of U.S. fruits may stimulate consumers to purchase more U.S. fresh fruits. [EconLit citations: M310, Q130.] © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Agribusiness 20: 433,448, 2004. [source]


A STUDY ON SUITABILITY OF FOUR ENRICHMENT BROTHS FOR PCR-BASED DETECTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES FROM RAW MEAT

JOURNAL OF FOOD SAFETY, Issue 1 2006
J. BALAMURUGAN
ABSTRACT Four enrichment broths were evaluated for their compatibility with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of Listeria monocytogenes from raw meat after single-step enrichment. Standardized PCR protocols for listeriolysin O (hlyA) gene were used for the species-specific identification of L. monocytogenes. Four broths, namely, modified University of Vermont broth (MUVM), Listeria enrichment broth (LEB), Fraser broth (FB) and polymyxin, acriflavin, lithium chloride, ceftazidime, aesculin, mannitol, egg yolk broth (PALCAM) , were inoculated with L. monocytogenes. The enriched cultures were subjected for PCR. Similarly, meat samples were artificially spiked with various concentrations of L. monocytogenes, these spiked samples were enriched in the above-mentioned four broths and subjected to PCR to determine the medium that was most compatible for PCR-based detection of L. monocytogenes. The aliquots taken during different incubation periods were subjected to three different procedures for the concentration of the target organism for use in PCR. Results revealed that MUVM was better than other broths for the detection of L. monocytogenes by both PCR and cultural method; moreover, it was able to support the growth of as low as 10 cfu/g of meat. Concentration of the target organisms by centrifugation and washing with PCR buffer was the most suitable method for improving PCR performance for detection of L. monocytogenes. Goat (n = 67) and buffalo (n = 45) meat samples from local markets were also screened by both PCR and cultural method to validate the results obtained from the spiking studies. Both results were in agreement in spiking studies as well as screening of market meat samples. [source]


The Competitive Dynamics of Geographic Deregulation in Banking: Implications for Productive Efficiency

JOURNAL OF MONEY, CREDIT AND BANKING, Issue 5 2008
DOUGLAS D. EVANOFF
market entry; bank mergers; banking deregulation; cost X-efficiency Deregulation of geographic restrictions in banking over the past 20 years has intensified both potential and actual competition in the industry. The accumulating empirical evidence suggests that potential efficiency gains associated with consolidating banks are often not realized. We evaluate the impact of this increased competition on the productive efficiency of non-merging banks confronted with new entry in their local markets and find that the incumbent banks respond by improving cost efficiency. Thus, studies evaluating the impact of bank mergers on the efficiency of the combining parties alone may be overlooking the most significant welfare-enhancing aspect of merger activity. [source]


Association Between Quality of Cheap and Unrecorded Alcohol Products and Public Health Consequences in Poland

ALCOHOLISM, Issue 10 2009
Dirk W. Lachenmeier
Background:, The research aimed to study the quality of cheap alcohol products in Poland. These included unrecorded alcohols (i.e., home-produced or illegally imported), estimated to constitute more than 25% of total consumption and fruit wines. Methods:, A sample of alcohol products (n = 52) was collected from local markets and chemical analyses were conducted. The parameters studied were alcoholic strength, volatiles (methanol, acetaldehyde, and higher alcohols), ethyl carbamate, inorganic elements, and food additives including preservatives, colors, and sweeteners. The compositions of the beverages were then toxicologically evaluated using international standards. Results:, With the exception of 1 fortified wine, the unrecorded alcohols were home-produced fruit-derived spirits (moonshine) and spirits imported from other countries. We did not detect any nonbeverage surrogate alcohol. The unrecorded spirits contained, on average, 45% vol of alcohol. However, some products with considerably higher alcoholic strengths were found (up to 85% vol) with no labeling of the content on the bottles. These products may cause more pronounced detrimental health effects (e.g., liver cirrhosis, injuries, some forms of malignant neoplasms, alcohol use disorders, and cardiovascular disease) than will commercial beverages, especially as the consumer may be unaware of the alcohol content consumed. Fruit wines containing between 9.5 and 12.2% vol alcohol showed problems in terms of their additive content and their labeling (e.g., sulfites, sorbic acid, saccharin, and artificial colors) and should be subjected to stricter control. Regarding the other components investigated, the suspected human carcinogens, acetaldehyde and ethyl carbamate, were found at levels relevant to public health concerns. While acetaldehyde is a typical constituent of fermented beverages, ethyl carbamate was found only in home-produced unrecorded alcohols derived from stone fruits with levels significantly above international guidelines. Conclusions:, The contamination of unrecorded alcohols with ethyl carbamate should be analyzed in a larger sample that also should include legal alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, the impacts of unrecorded alcohol on the health of people with lower socioeconomic status should be studied in detail. Overall, given the extent of the alcohol-attributable disease burden in Poland, the highest priority should be given to the problem of ethanol and its very high content in unrecorded alcohol products. [source]


Impact of the Community Reinvestment Act on New Business Start-Ups and Economic Growth in Local Markets,

JOURNAL OF SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, Issue 4 2009
Nada Kobeissi
Economic growth in the United States has historically bypassed many minorities and low-income communities. Some researchers and community advocates assert that the deterioration of these communities is in part caused by financial institutions' redlining and neglect. To rectify the situation, the government introduced the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) for the purpose of encouraging banks and saving institutions to become more socially responsible and help meet the credit needs of communities in which they are located. The CRA was the government's response to bank lending discrimination. However, when passing the Act, Congress was equally concerned with reversing or at least halting disinvestment from inner-city communities and in turn revitalizing local economies. Many believe that the availability of credit to establish, refinance, and improve small businesses is critical to the well-being of local communities. Therefore, through the provision of small business loans, the CRA could be envisioned as a catalyst toward achieving that goal. Thus the aim of this paper is to investigate potential relationship between banks' CRA lending activities, and new business start-ups and economic growth in local markets. The paper proposes that new start-ups will have spillover effects that will consequently contribute to community development. After controlling for several potential variables that could have an impact on business start-ups and community developments, the study found a strong positive effect. Beside its social and economic implications, the study also considered policy implications associated with the CRA regulation as a welfare improving initiative in low-income communities. It offers ground for certain government intervention in the loan market. [source]


Seed transmission of maize downy mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi) in Nigeria

PLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2000
V. O. Adenle
In an area of Nigeria where downy mildew of maize is present, histological assessment of maize seed revealed the presence of mycelium and oospores of Peronosclerospora sorghi in the kernels. Seed transmission of downy mildew of maize was demonstrated when grain purchased at local markets gave mean seedling infection rates of 12·3% (untreated seeds) and 10·0% (in metalaxyl-treated seeds) within 7 days of emergence, after storage in a desiccator for 30 days. When untreated seeds taken from nubbin ears of systemically infected plants from four states in southern Nigeria were planted at 9 days (17,22% moisture content) and 27 days (9,22% moisture content) after harvest, 20·0% infected seedlings resulted in both trials. Seeds from Borno state in northern Nigeria had 26·6% systemic seedling infection after 9 months of storage at 11% moisture content. When seeds harvested from maize plants inoculated with P. sorghi through silks were examined histologically, hyphae of P. sorghi were observed mostly in the scutellum of the embryo. Transmission of disease to seedlings was observed when the silk-inoculated seeds (9% moisture content) were planted in pots in a greenhouse; however, no disease transmission was observed when such seeds were planted in the field. The epidemiological significance of seed transmission is discussed with particular reference to survival of inoculum and development of epidemics. Also noteworthy is the overall significance of seed transmission in Nigeria, where the major source of seed is that saved by farmers from their grain crop, occasionally supplemented by seed bought from the local market. [source]